Plant Of The Week! 'Poinsettia'

PLANT OF THE WEEK

'POINSETTIA'

·       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.

·       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.

·       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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