Poinsettia Plant – Traditional Christmas Flower
The Poinsettia plant (Euphorbia pulcherrima) is a perennial shrub that
belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is native to Mexico and Central
America. The Poinsettia gets its name from Joel R. Poinsett, who
introduced the plant to the United States when he was U.S. minister to
Mexico in 1825. It is one of the most popular flowering potted plants
in the United States, over 70 million are sold nationwide each year.
The colorful, flower-like “blooms” of Poinsettias are made up of bracts
(modified leaves). The actual flowers are the small yellow blossoms in
the center of the bracts. The most common color of the Poinsettia is a
brilliant red; however, breeders of this plant have produced cultivars
resulting in a variety of colors, such as white, pink, yellow, peach.
Some cultivars are marbled, or speckled in appearance.
A common myth is that Poinsettia flowers are poisonous. A study
conducted at the Ohio State University concluded that no toxicity was
evident at experimental ingestion levels far exceeding those likely to
occur in a home environment.
Selecting
Poinsettias
Poinsettias are a popular Christmas plant because, when chosen

carefully, they will last through the holiday season (November through
December). Follow these tips for choosing the best Poinsettia plant:
Bracts & Leaves
– Bracts should be completely colored (no green around the edges).
Leaves should be dark, rich green in color (avoid yellow leaves). Look
for full, dense foliage all the way down the stem to the soil line.
Shape & Size
– Choose a plant that is 2 ½ times taller than the diameter of the
container. Check the Poinsettia from all sides. It should look full and
balanced.
Age & Durability
– Check plant for signs of wilting. The foliage and bracts should be
bright in color, and show no signs of breakage. Select plants with
stiff stems, and no signs of breakage.
Poinsettia
Plant Care
With careful choice and excellent care, Poinsettia plants will retain
their beauty for up to eight weeks. Proper Poinsettia care is important
to keep your Poinsettia thriving throughout the holiday season. Follow
these Poinsettia care instructions:
Watering
Check the soil daily. Soil should be moderately moist. If it is dry to

the touch, water the Poinsettia thoroughly. Water should run out of the
drainage hole at the bottom of the container. Do not allow this plant
to sit in standing water – this could cause root rot.
Light
Place the container in a location that receives bright, indirect light.
Ideally, Poinsettias should receive six or more hours of bright,
indirect light. Direct sunlight can fade the colorful bracts of the
plant.
Temperature
Temperature should not exceed 70° F, and not fall below 50° F. Avoid
placing plant near hot or cold drafts – this could cause leaves to
drop.
Fertilizer
Poinsettias do not require fertilizer when in bloom.
