Growing and caring for poinsettia

Native to Mexico, poinsettias are part of the Euphorbia family. They are well-known holiday plants because of their brightly colored bracts, which look like leaves. Some species are also used as cut flowers.

These plants are mainly used for decoration during the winter holidays. They can also be grown as green houseplants throughout the year and still look attractive.

Poinsettias change color based on the length of winter days. The plant’s flowers are made up of colorful bracts and tiny yellow flowers called cyathia that appear in the center. The bright bracts attract insects, which help with pollination. After pollination, the bracts usually fall off.

Poinsettias are safe for both people and animals. However, they should not be eaten. The plant’s sticky white sap can cause skin rashes, so gloves are best when handling them. Avoid contact with your eyes and mouth. Always wash tools after working with the plant since the sap can stick to them.

Poinsettias come in many colors. During the holidays, they are available in colors like white, pink, red, and even orange. Some varieties have patterned bracts with combinations of red and white, pink and white, or green and white.

The shape of poinsettia flowers also varies. Some look similar to roses. Garden centers sometimes sell brightly colored or painted varieties in blue or purple. These are usually cream-colored plants that are painted or sprinkled with glitter.

---