Flower of the Month December: the Poinsettia
The much-loved poinsettia is renowned for being UK’s and America’s favourite Christmas flower, but it actually has roots in a much warmer climate. Originating in Mexico, the plant was brought to the USA by Dr Joel Roberts Poinsett who was the ambassador to Mexico and a prominent botanist. Learn how the poinsettia, also Cas The Christmas Star, became so loved, and what this vibrant flower means.
The History of the Poinsettia
As Christmas approaches and the poinsettia adorns florists all over Europe, it is almost certain that those that purchase this plant don’t know very much about its origins. The plant was used by the Aztecs to dye fabrics as well as to adorn homes and gardens. It caught the eye of Dr Poinsett in the early 19th century, and so he brought it back to America. It wasn’t long before this plant that flowers in December became a popular choice of celebratory flower bouquet to gift at Christmas time.
A Flower That isn’t a Flower
In addition to not knowing the origins of the poinsettia, you may not also be aware that the red flowers on the plant are actually the leaves. The leaves act to attract insects to the plant who can then find the tiny flowers that lie among the leaves. It doesn't in any way detract from the beauty of the plant but is quite obvious when you take a closer look at the winter-flowering plant.
A Gift of a Poinsettia Flower Arrangement
This bright red plant is the perfect choice for a festive centrepiece but is also a worthy gift for different occasions. The flower, like many flowers, has been attributed to certain connotations, including respect, faithfulness, and good tidings. This makes the poinsettia a fabulous floral gift for friends and family at Christmas.
An Unusual Birthday Gift
As of December’s birth flower, the poinsettia is a thoughtful gift to send via flower delivery to loved ones should their birthday fall during this month. It is said that the poinsettia reflects the traits that people born in December possess: humour, generosity, and cheerfulness. These are perfect for those that enjoy something a little different as a poinsettia is certainly different from the usual type of cheap flowers available at this time of the year. Team the floral gift with one of December’s birthstones, turquoise, zircon or tanzanite. A piece of jewellery or an ornament, including one of these stones will be a wonderful present to accompany your poinsettia.
How to Care For Your Poinsettia
If you are thinking about adorning your home with poinsettias this winter, it is important to know how to care for them so you can make the most of them. Despite being a winter-flowering plant, poinsettias enjoy bright but indirect light. It is therefore wise not to place them on a windowsill or in direct sunlight, but near the light, so it can enjoy a reasonable amount. Don’t place them near radiators or any other heat source as this will dry them out. Poinsettias can be slow to bloom so if you want a festive display around Christmas, buy them when the leaves are fully out.
Are Poinsettias Poisonous?
For some reason, many believe that poinsettias are highly toxic, when in fact they are not. Although ingestion of the plant is certainly not to be encouraged, they are very rarely toxic to animals. However, ingestion of the flowers and leaves may cause vomiting and drool and it is, therefore, sensible to keep your flowers out of the reach of animals. You don’t want your furry friends to ruin your beautiful flowers now, do you?