History and Lore
Poinsettias have been a part of the Christmas tradition here in the U.S. since the early 19th century, when passionate botanist and U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Joel Roberts Poinsett brought this vibrant shrub to his home in South Carolina. Poinsett was enthralled with his new "discovery" and began growing the plant and sharing it with his friends and family around Christmastime when the plant was most vibrant. While Poinsett is credited to have brought the plant to the U.S., it was first sold to the public in 1828 by a Pennsylvania nursery owner, Robert Buist. It wasn't until 1836 that the poinsettia would earn it's namesake, up to which point it was referred to by it's scientific name, _Euphorbia pulcherrima_. The poinsettia was then further bred by Paul Ecke Sr. in the early 1900's, who developed the first poinsettias that could be grown indoors in pots.
While the poinsettia has been an iconic holiday plant in the U.S. for over a hundred years, it's roots are deep in ancient Aztec history. It is believed that the poinsettia was valued in Aztec culture for perceived medicinal benefits, used for red and purple dyes and beloved by Emperor Montezuma. By the 17th century, the poinsettia had earned it's place in Mexican tradition and it's connection to Christmas began through the legend of "Pepita and la flor de la noche buena".
Plant Characteristics
While the poinsettia has been an iconic holiday plant in the U.S. for over a hundred years, it's roots are deep in ancient Aztec history. It is believed that the poinsettia was valued in Aztec culture for perceived medicinal benefits, used for red and purple dyes and beloved by Emperor Montezuma. By the 17th century, the poinsettia had earned it's place in Mexican tradition and it's connection to Christmas began through the legend of "Pepita and la flor de la noche buena".
Poinsettia Care
Although they are sold almost exclusively around the winter holidays, the poinsettia will not tolerate cold temperatures. When purchasing a poinsettia, be sure to protect it from wind and cold during transport, and place it away from any drafts in your home. While poinsettias need darkness to initiate blooms, they will look their best for the holidays if given access to bright indirect light in your home. Water only when the surface of the soil has had a chance to dry and remember to remove the foil pot cover when watering to allow for drainage.
