On Point With The Poinsettia

On a visit to Mexico, Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, discovered what we now know as the poinsettia. A physician and diplomat by trade, Poinsett was also an amateur botanist. Upon finding the plant during his time in Mexico, Poinsett sent some samples back to his home in South Carolina and began propagating and sharing the plant with friends. By 1836, the plant was widely known as the poinsettia. Since its early origin, the plant now comes in more than 100 varieties and several colors with varying shades. Our team can source many varieties, even blue and purple ones!

Things to note for caring for your poinsettia:

• Poinsettias prefer at least six hours of bright, indirect sunlight each day.
• Do not allow your poinsettia to touch the cold glass of a window.
• Keep away from drafty areas and maintain a moderate room temperature. If the poinsettia gets too cold, it will drop leaves.
• Water when dry, but allow for the plant to adequately drain.

If you are looking for some ways to change up how you display poinsettias this year, click here to check out some fun ideas, or view a video on how to use the poinsettia as a cut flower.

Interested in using poinsettias in your holiday décor this year or looking for other ways to add some holiday cheer? Give us a call at 515.987.0800 to talk to an expert.  Or, request a quote online here.

Want to go rouge from the poinsettia? Click here to learn about three other holiday plants that are sure to become staples in your holiday décor.