Houseplantdex

Chinese evergreen vs Dieffenbachia

Aglaonema commutatum vs Dieffenbachia seguine

Both upright Araceae with patterned leaves — often mistaken for each other.

Which should you pick?

Chinese evergreen tolerates lower light; Dieffenbachia needs brighter conditions.

4 of 10 attributes differ (highlighted below).

Side by side

Chinese evergreen Dieffenbachia
Pet safety Toxic to pets Toxic to pets
Light Low light – Bright indirect Medium / part shade – Bright indirect
Water Let the top inch dry Let the top inch dry
Humidity Average household Average household
Temperature 16°C – 27°C · 61°F – 81°F 18°C – 27°C · 64°F – 81°F
Difficulty Easy Easy
Soil Standard potting mix Standard potting mix
Fertilizing Monthly, growing season Monthly, growing season
Mature height (indoor) 40–60 cm 0.6–1.8 m
Growth rate Slow Moderate

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