Poinsettia - Euphorbia pulcherrima (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Poinsettia

Also known as: Painted leaf, Winter rose

The poinsettia is a common sight in the United States during Christmastime. It was popularized by Albert Ecke after he emigrated to California from Germany. Today, 70 million poinsettias are sold in a 6-week period.

Scientific classification

Species

Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima)

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Mid fall, Late fall, Winter

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

60 cm to 4 m

Plant Height

90 cm to 2 m

Spread

Green, Red

Leaf Color

6 mm to 8 mm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

Yellow, Red, White, Pink, Cream, Green, Burgundy

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Winter

Growth Season

Images of Poinsettia

Distribution of Poinsettia

Distribution Map

The poinsettia's natural range runs from Mexico to southern Guatemala. It has been introduced to most of the world as an indoor or outdoor ornamental plant. It is found growing in tropical and subtropical forests within its region.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Garden

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

While typically grown in containers, the poinsettia can also be grown as an ornamental bush, and can be used as a privacy screen as established plants can grow up to 3 m high. It is prized for its showy red blooms and long blooming season. It is also prized for its resistance to drought, pollution, and animals. The poinsettia can be planted alongside the Dracaena, Peace Lily, and Fern.

Symbolism

Purity, good cheer, success, celebration

Interesting Facts

According to legend, in ancient times, a village was seriously short of water because of debris blocking the flow of the river. A brave man in red clothes cut the huge stones to unblock the river risking his own safety. However, he became fatigued and was washed away. Villagers later found that red flowers had grown along the river, and these are now known as the " poinsettia ".

Name Story

Poinsettia: It is particularly well known for its red and green foliage and it is widely used in Christmas floral displays. The name, Poinsettia is derived from Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first United States Minister to go to Mexico, who introduced the plant to the US in 1825.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Poinsettia, including the following common varieties :

Poinsettia 'Regina'Poinsettia 'Marbella'Poinsettia 'Lilo White'

Toxicity

Poinsettia may cause mild irritation if its milky sap touches the skin, mouth, or eyes. Common symptoms include vomiting or diarrhea after contact. Cats and dogs may experience mouth irritation, nausea, or vomiting, with severe symptoms being rare. The plant's toxins can cause irritation, but fatalities are highly uncommon.

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Quickly Identify Poinsettia

Dark green ovate leaves up to 6 inches long, exhibiting smooth or lobed edges.

Prominent red, pink, or white bracts surrounding small yellow flowers with a distinct yellow gland.

Vertical stem exuding milky sap, smooth surface, branching into lateral stems, reaching 2-3 feet tall.

Compact flower clusters resembling tiny cups, blooming during winter-spring with red or green tips.

Deciduous shrub rarely surpassing 2-3 feet, with bright red bracts often mistaken for flowers.

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Care Guide for Poinsettia

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from tropical deciduous forests, poinsettia thrives in high humidity and consistent moisture, with a moderate drought tolerance. Water every 1-2 weeks to keep soil moist, and mist regularly to maintain humidity, simulating its native climate.

Fertilize: To keep poinsettia vibrant, apply a balanced fertilizer biweekly during growth, reducing to monthly in winter. Use half strength to prevent nutrient burn. Water poinsettia before fertilizing and distribute the solution evenly around its base for optimal results.

Pruning: Poinsettia thrives with proper pruning, best done in late spring after flowering. Trim stems to 4-6 inches, targeting weak growth to encourage fullness and future blooms. Regular maintenance supports compactness, prevents legginess, and promotes vibrant health for year-round appeal.

Propagation: For successful propagation of poinsettia, use healthy stem cuttings treated with rooting hormone. Plant in well-draining soil in a humid environment, ensuring consistent moisture without waterlogging. Once rooted, gradually acclimatize poinsettia to normal growing conditions.

Repotting: Repot poinsettia every 2-3 years when root-bound, preferably in spring. Choose a container 2-3 inches wider, using well-draining soil. After repotting, place poinsettia in bright indirect light and avoid watering for a few days to prevent root rot.

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Images of Poinsettia

Distribution of Poinsettia

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Poinsettia

Care Guide for Poinsettia

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