Poinsettia

Plant Bio

Euphorbia pulcherrima

Native to North America (poinsettias come from areas of Mexico), this tropical shrub has the ability to grow 15 feet tall or more in its native habitat, but it’s easy to keep shorter as a houseplant if you wish to keep it year round. Despite being found just over the border, poinsettias weren’t introduced as holiday plants to the United States until the 1820s. Today, plant breeders from around the world have been working with poinsettias to come up with varieties that produce bracts in shades of pink, white, purple, bicolors, and orange, beyond the traditional red.

Poinsettia grows best in bright light, but tolerates lower light levels, especially if you intend to compost it after the holiday season. It prefers average household temperatures and average humidity levels (40 percent or more is ideal). Water as the top couple of inches so of the potting mix dries to the touch. Avoid letting it dry out and keep it away from hot or cold drafts, as these conditions can make the bracts drop prematurely.

Note: This plant may have some natural degree of toxicity and may cause discomfort or illness if ingested. Additionally, exposure to the sap of this plant may cause discomfort to individuals with a sensitivity to it upon contact. Grown for ornamental purposes and not intended for human or animal consumption.