DUMB CANE (Dieffenbachia spp.)
This is a common indoor ornamental plant which
is an erect herb with a stout green stem bearing large fleshy leaves. It is now commonly found in the secondary forest of Singapore where people have previously inhabited, especially near jungle streams or wetlands. The
oblong leaves are either entirely green or variegated with the veins usually
dark green and the spaces between them white. It has been known to cause
poisoning to young children. The sap from the plant if ingested cause reddening
and irritation of the throat followed by burning pain, salivating, difficulty
in swallowing and causing loss of speech for several days…hence the name
dumb cane. During treks, do be careful not to accidentally bruise the plant and get in contact with the sap as it can cause irritation on your skin for several days.