Poinsettia
Euphorbia pulcherrima
Poinsettias are iconic Christmas plants with colorful bracts surrounding small yellow flowers. They symbolize good cheer, success, and the Star of Bethlehem.
Euphorbiaceae (Spurge family)
Winter (December-February), triggered by short days
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: eschscholzias and daphnes also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Poinsettias are deeply connected to Christmas tradition, representing the Star of Bethlehem. Mexican legend tells of a poor girl who offered weeds at church, which miraculously bloomed into beautiful red poinsettias. They became popular Christmas plants after Joel Roberts Poinsett introduced them to the US in the 1820s.Botanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Bright indirect light indoors; full sun to partial shade outdoors
Water
Moderate; water when soil surface feels dry, avoid waterlogging
Soil
Well-draining, Fertile potting mix, Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.8-7.0)
Expert Growing Tips
Keep away from drafts and extreme temperatures
Maintain temperatures between 65-70°F (18-21°C)
Water when top inch of soil is dry
Provide 12-14 hours of darkness daily for 8-10 weeks to trigger blooming
Pinch growing tips in summer to encourage branching
Fertilize monthly during growing season
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Christmas and holiday decorations
- Indoor houseplant during winter
- Seasonal gift plant
- Landscape shrub in warm climates
- Mass plantings for color displays
Traditional Uses
- Traditional Mexican use for fever and skin ailments (use with caution)
- Milky sap can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals
- Not recommended for internal consumption
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Poinsettia
What do poinsettias symbolize?
Poinsettias symbolize good cheer, success, and celebration. They're most famously associated with Christmas and represent the Star of Bethlehem in Christian tradition.
Are poinsettias poisonous?
Poinsettias are mildly toxic but not deadly. The milky sap can cause skin irritation and mild stomach upset if ingested, but they're not as dangerous as commonly believed.
How do you make poinsettias bloom again?
To rebloom poinsettias, provide 12-14 hours of complete darkness daily for 8-10 weeks starting in September, while maintaining normal light during the day.
How long do poinsettias last?
With proper care, poinsettias can maintain their colorful bracts for 2-5 months. The colored bracts typically last longer than the small actual flowers.
Why are my poinsettia leaves falling off?
Poinsettia leaves drop due to stress from drafts, temperature changes, overwatering, underwatering, or low light. Maintain consistent care and avoid temperature extremes.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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