PoinsettiaHistory: The Poinsettia, often referred to as the “Christmas Plant”, was first brought to the USA from its native land Mexico, in 1825 by the first US ambassador Joel Robert Poinsett. Today, with the multitude of colors, sizes and shapes available, poinsettias offer an abundance of holiday cheer for every décor.
Description: Poinsettias are shrubby plants, grown either single stem (one plant per pot), with one or more plants per pot, or branched plants with multiple flowers. The height varies from 8 inches to 3 feet, though older plants can be considerably larger. Flower bracts spread to 12-15 inches, though the branched plants usually produce more flowers with smaller bracts.
Light Requirements: Poinsettias will grow best in medium light. Place in an area where there is sufficient natural light, avoiding hot sunny windows.
Temperature: Optimum temperature range is 70-75F (Night minimum 55-65F). Keep away from hot or cold drafts. Frigid cold or freezing temperatures will cause the leaves to turn black and die.
Water Requirements: Water plant thoroughly when soil surface is dry to the touch. Remember to discard the excess water, never leave a Poinsettia sitting in water. The soil may change from grower to grower, so check your Poinsettia every 2-3 days for possible watering.
Fertilization: Poinsettias can be given an indoor flowering plant food as directed at the time of purchase and at monthly intervals throughout the life of the plant.
Plant Tip: Poinsettias are considered clean air machines. According to the “Plants for Clean Air Council” in Washington D.C., Poinsettias can help reduce the indoor pollutant, formaldehyde. This toxin is found in plywood, foam insulation, grocery bags, room deodorizers, carpeting, clothes and other materials.
Common Problems: Dry Poinsettias with wilting foliage can usually be revived: immerse pot in warm water for 20 minutes or until bubbles stop rising, then allow to drain while plants regain turgidity. Avoid getting any water on foliage. Droopy foliage may occur when plant has been in a dark, cool place or sleeved for more than 24 hours. Place plant in light area and it will revive in a few days.
Aesthetic Life Expectancy – 3 weeks (estimated)