What’s the point? Poinsettias.

Does your winter décor include a beautiful, bright poinsettia?

Certainly, the poinsettia stands out with its green leaves and cheery flowers in varieties of pink, white and red. Whether part of your holiday traditions or just a way to chase away winter blues, the poinsettia has a history as colorful as its flora.

The poinsettia is native to Central America and Mexico. The plant became popular in the United States after being introduced by Joel Roberts Poinsett who was the first United States Minister to Mexico. Thus, the poinsettia is named after Poinsett.

Poinsettias are also the subject of several myths and legends. My favorite legend is retold by beloved children’s writer and illustrator, Tomie dePaola, in The Legend of the Poinsettia (Don’t worry: no spoilers here. Check it out at your nearest library or favorite book store).

One common myth about the poinsettia plant is it is highly poisonous. However, several sources including the National Capital Poison Center website (https://www.poison.org/articles/poinsettias) explain that, “Poinsettia can be irritating but it is not fatal if eaten. If children and pets eat it, they can develop a mouth rash and stomach upset. The sap can cause a skin rash, too.”

If you want to know how to properly care for your poinsettia and keep it growing and blooming much longer than the holidays, I found a great book that can help: Amaryllis, Paperwhites and Poinsettias: Growing, Propagating and Reblooming Your Holiday Plants by Miranda Hopkins. Hopkins’ book is simply organized and easy to follow for even the novice plant lover.

So, what’s the point? The point is that I hope you will continue to find joy in your holidays as well as your holiday plants – now and into the New Year. Cheers!