It’s here! Just in time for Christmas. Last weekend, I received the most beautiful, potted, red, velvet-like Poinsettia evoking the spirit of Christmas.
Euphorbia pulcherrima commonly called Poinsettia or Flower of the Holy Night originated in Mexico with a rich history dating back to the 14th century.
It was introduced to the United States by Joel Poinsett as American Ambassador to Mexico in the 18th Century and named after him.
It is grown in large quantities for the Christmas season as a hybrid potted plant with Holland and the United States being the largest growers and exporters.
Poinsettias have velvety green leaves that are toothed. The actual flowers are inconspicuous and are small and berry like. It is surrounded by leaf-like bracts. It is these bracts which become bright red as the flowers mature and which give the plant its fame.
The colour of the Poinsettias bracts will last for approximately three months given normal temperature and good light. Water the soil only: place a tray under the pot and pour the water into the tray. This way, the water will feed upwards. Make sure you know how to look after your Poinsettias and enjoy them to the fullest. You can also ask your sellers for care instructions.
Warning: Stems and bracts if broken gives off a milky sap. At all costs, avoid contact with the eyes. Remember, these beautiful rich red Poinsettias add to the colour of Christmas.
Until next week, Happy Gardening.
