All about the Poinsettia

Poinsettias, also known as Euphorbia pulcherrima, are a popular plant during the winter months, especially around Christmas. To ensure your poinsettias remain healthy and beautiful, it’s important to give them the right care. Poinsettias thrive best in a bright location, but not in direct sunlight. They should be kept away from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes. The ideal temperature is between 15-22°C (59-72°F). Be aware that they do not tolerate frost, so avoid placing them near open windows or exterior doors.

1. Place in bright light, but avoid direct sunlight.
2. Keep the soil slightly moist, avoid overwatering.
3. Protect from cold and drafts, as the plant is sensitive to temperature changes.
4. Avoid placing near fruit to prevent leaf drop.
5. Give the plant a rest period after blooming for new growth.

Poinsettias need consistent watering, but it’s important to avoid overwatering, as their roots can rot easily. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch, but make sure excess water can drain away from the pot. A good rule of thumb is to water the poinsettia with lukewarm water once or twice a week, depending on the humidity in the room. Always empty the saucer of excess water to prevent the roots from standing in water, which can lead to root rot.

The ideal placement for a poinsettia is in a location with plenty of natural light but without direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. Poinsettias thrive in room temperature, and it is important to avoid cold shocks, so do not place them near doors that are frequently opened or close to radiators where the heat can become too intense. Also, avoid placing them too close to fruit, as the ethylene emitted by fruit can cause the poinsettia to drop its leaves faster.

The “flowers” of the poinsettia are actually modified leaves called bracts, which change color, usually to red, white, or pink, when the plant blooms. The true flowers are the small yellow buds in the center of the colored bracts. Blooming typically begins in November and can last until February if the plant is cared for properly. To get the poinsettia to bloom again the following year, it needs a period of 12-14 hours of total darkness each day for about eight weeks.

The poinsettia originally comes from Mexico, where the Aztecs used it to make red dye and as a medicine for fever. It was introduced to the United States in the early 1800s by Joel Poinsett, an American ambassador to Mexico, after whom the plant is also named (Poinsettia). The poinsettia quickly became popular as a Christmas plant because of its brilliant red bracts, which resemble the colors of Christmas, and it has since become a staple in Christmas traditions in many countries around the world.

A poinsettia in a Christmas arrangement adds a beautiful, colorful element to the decoration and creates a festive atmosphere. It is often combined with other Christmas flowers such as hyacinths and amaryllis, creating a varied and harmonious display. The poinsettia's vibrant red or white bracts make it a popular choice for Christmas arrangements.