The modern association of the poinsettia plant with Christmas evolved from a Mexican legend. The story describes a poor child on Christmas Eve gathering weeds along the road to decorate the church altar. When placed on the altar, the weeds turned into flowers of vibrant red and green colors!
Today, poinsettias are featured as a Christmas symbol, given as gifts, and used as holiday decorations. Large plants can be arranged to frame a doorway or fireplace, while smaller poinsettias make beautiful centerpieces for tables and mantles. Also known as the “Christmas Star,” these plants symbolize hope, joy, love and purity. They are not necessarily flowers but instead red-topped shrubs. The star-shaped leaves make poinsettias a natural fit for the Christmas celebration.
Poinsettias are in bloom during the holiday season, showing off vivid red leaves called “bracts” with small round flowers in the center of the stalks. Place the plants in a sunny window and water when the top half inch to inch of soil is dry. Be careful not to let a poinsettia sit in water as these plants are susceptible to root rot.
A poinsettia plant can live as long as one to two years or more if given the proper care.
Although not always successful, it is possible to encourage regrowth during the next holiday season.
We hope you have a wonderful holiday season!
Flower of the Week: Poinsettia
Please email Kathy at kcg.pvr@gmail.com for any questions or gardening tips you would like to see in the future. For more information and ideas, visit Kathy’s Creative Gardens & Nursery, 196 N. Roscoe Blvd. The phone number is 904-655-7373.