Dumb cane is native to tropical Central and South America, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands where it grows on the forest floor in shady areas.

Dumb cane gets its common name from the temporary speechlessness that occurs after chewing on a piece of the stem. Every part of this plant contains calcium oxalate—this acts like tiny splinters and can cause small tears in the mouth, throat, and stomach if they are eaten. If a person chews Dumb cane, their mouth and lips can become so swollen that they are temporarily unable to speak.

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