Plant Of The Week! 'Poinsettia'

PLANT OF THE WEEK
'POINSETTIA'
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Poinsettias are a commercially
important flowering plant species of the diverse spurge family Euphorbiaceae.
Indigenous to Mexico and Central America, the poinsettia was first described by
Europeans in 1834. It is particularly well known for its red and green foliage
and is widely used at Christmas for floral displays. It derives its common
English name from Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first United States Minister
to Mexico.
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They are known as shrubs or small
trees, with heights an average of 0.6 to 4 m (2.0 to 13.1 ft). Though
often stated to be highly toxic, the poinsettia is not a dangerous plant to
pets or children.
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Exposure to the plant, even
consumption, most often results in no effect, though it can cause nausea,
vomiting, or diarrhoea.
· As
well as Christmas trees, the Poinsettia is the most popular holiday plant of
the season. It will decorate your home all Christmassy with its red and green
colours, but your poinsettias can also be kept alive throughout the year.
· Poinsettias
dislike the hot and dry conditions. Keep them away from the radiators, cold and
draughty spots. They need plenty of day light, so place it on a windowsill during
the day and take it down overnight (to prevent draught).
· They
prefer soft water – Rainwater is naturally soft and low in minerals (lime)
therefore perfect for your plants. Collect it to water your plant!
· There
are over 100 types of poinsettias in shades of pink, purple, red, white,
yellow, and multi coloured. Most common varieties; Prestige Red, a classic red and
best seller, and Jingle Bells; Red bracts, splashed with soft pink or white.
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