Poinsettia

Botanical Name: Euphorbia pulcherrima
Common Names: Poinsettia

Description

The iconic holiday queen herself — the Poinsettia. Native to Mexico and Central America, this plant is famous for its bold red and green foliage, but don’t be fooled… she has range. You’ll find her showing off in pink, white, marbled, speckled, or fully variegated outfits depending on the variety.

Fun fact: those “petals” you love are actually colored bracts, and yes — their shade can shift depending on the lighting conditions you give her.

A festive diva with year-round potential, the Poinsettia brings color, cheer, and drama wherever she goes.

Care Instructions

☀️ Light

Give your Poinsettia a bright, indirect view of the sky.
She thrives in strong natural light but not harsh, direct sun — too much can fade her bracts quicker than Christmas cookies disappear at a holiday party.

💧 Water

Keep soil lightly and evenly moist, similar to a sponge that’s been fully wrung out.
Allow the top 25% of the soil to dry before watering again.
Avoid letting water pool in decorative pots — her roots do not appreciate sitting in a puddle.

🌡️ Temperature

Poinsettias prefer warmth and stability. Protect from cold drafts and temps below 55°F — she will absolutely tell on you by dropping leaves.

🐾 Pet Safety

Not pet-safe.
The sap can cause mouth and skin irritation. Keep away from curious paws and nibblers.

🌿 Fleurish Tip

If you want her to re-color for next year, give her bright indirect light through spring and summer… then starting in early fall, treat her like a Victorian widow and restrict nighttime light. Long nights = red bracts. (It’s a whole mood, but worth it.)