How do I identify a poinsettia?

Check the small true flowers located at the base of each cluster of colored bracts. They should be fresh-looking with green or red tips. If there is yellow pollen on the flowers, the plant is past its peak bloom and the color bracts will fade soon. Don't choose a plant that looks wilted or withered in any way.

Accordingly, what does a Poinsettia look like?

The bright petals of Poinsettias, which look like flowers, are actually the bunch of upper leaves of the plant, called bracts. Poinsettia flowers are small, green or yellow, and grow inconspicuously in the center of each leaf bunch. In colder climates, Poinsettias are grown as indoor plants.

Subsequently, question is, do poinsettias have a scent? Yep. That's what poinsettias do for you. They clean the air. Specifically, they wipe out formaldehyde that you can't see or smell, but you certainly don't want.

Regarding this, how do I pick a poinsettia?

Selecting Poinsettias

Choose a plant with dark green foliage down to the soil line.
Choose bracts (modified leaves) that are completely colored.
Do not purchase poinsettias with a lot of green around the bract edges.
Do not choose plants with fallen or yellowed leaves.
The poinsettia should look full, balanced and attractive from all sides.

What type of plant is a poinsettia?

Poinsettias are part of the Euphorbiaceae or Spurge family. Botanically, the plant is known as Euphorbia pulcherrima. Many plants in the Euphorbiaceae family ooze a milky sap. Some people with latex allergies have had a skin reaction (most likely to the sap) after touching the leaves.

26 Related Question Answers Found

What is the lifespan of a poinsettia?

"Home gardeners generally keep their poinsettias one or two years. If they're really dedicated, maybe a little longer. But the life span for interior plants when you live in the North is measured in months, not years."

What do I do with my poinsettia after Christmas?

Assuming you're cool with that, as soon as the poinsettia drops its green leaves, do this:

Cut it back to 4 to 6 inches tall and move it to a slightly larger pot with good drainage.
Keep the soil moist, but never soggy.
Provide bright light.
Feed weekly with liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half-strength.

Is a poinsettia poisonous to dogs?

Though they have a bad rap, poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) plants are only mildly toxic to cats and dogs. While poinsettias are commonly “hyped” as poisonous plants, they rarely are, and the poisoning is greatly exaggerated. When ingested, mild signs of vomiting, drooling, or rarely, diarrhea may be seen.

Are poinsettias bad luck?

Poinsettias Are Not Poisonous

As with all ornamental plants, poinsettias are not intended for human or animal consumption.

Why are the leaves on my poinsettia falling off?

Answer: Improper watering may be responsible for the leaf drop on the poinsettia. Over-watering will cause the lower leaves to turn yellow and drop. Plants that are allowed to get too dry will wilt and also drop leaves.

Can you keep a poinsettia year round?

Poinsettias can be kept year after year, and they will bloom each year if you give them proper care. When the leaves begin to yellow or when the plant is no longer desired as an ornamental, gradually withhold water. Keep the plant somewhat on the dry side; water only enough to keep the stems from withering.

Are poinsettias only for Christmas?

Other fowering plants have become part of the festive scene, but poinsettias alone remain unchallenged as the traditional flower of Christmas. It also is significant that the poinsettia not only is the most popular Christmas plant but also is the No. 1 flowering potted plant in the United States.

How do you take cuttings from a poinsettia?

Cut the stems back and allow new growth to develop. Keep the parent plants warm, consistently moist, and in a bright location to produce useful cuttings. Once the new stems have grown at least 4 inches, you can begin taking cuttings. The cuttings should be between 3 to 4 inches long with 2 to 3 mature leaves.

How do you care for a poinsettia plant indoors?

Just follow these simple rules:

Light: Poinsettias need a minimum of six hours of bright (but not direct) sunlight each day.
Temperature: These plants prefer temperatures from 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day with a drop from 60 to 65 degrees at night.
Water: Poinsettias like moist, but not wet, soil.

How do you take care of a potted poinsettia?

Hydrated and Humid: Make sure to water the poinsettia whenever the surface of the soil feels dry. Give the plant a good watering, but don't flood or soak it – gravel in the bottom of the pot will help keep the roots dry.

How do you water a poinsettia plant?

How to Water a poinsettia

Fully Dry. If the soil is dry all the way through and the pot feels light when picked up, soak the plant in the sink.
Half Dry. If the top inch of soil feels dry but underneath is damp, a light water to top up is ideal - aim to keep the soil damp throughout at all times.

What are poinsettias good for?

Poinsettia is a flowering plant. The whole plant and its sap (latex) are used to make medicine. They also take the latex to kill pain, kill bacteria, and cause vomiting. Some people apply poinsettia latex directly to the skin (use topically) to remove hair, treat warts, and heal other skin disorders.

Where do poinsettias grow?

Native to tropical parts of Mexico and Central America, poinsettias (Euphorbia pulcherrima) are showy perennials that are hardy in zones 9 to 11, and they're surprisingly easy to grow.

Do Easter lilies cause allergies?

The Lily, A Yes and No: Lilies are dubbed the worst for allergy sufferers. Flowers that are strongly fragrant, or that carry too much pollen are sure signs they might be bad for those with allergies.

How are poinsettias grown?

The colorful “flowers” of poinsettias are actually modified leaves called “bracts.” Poinsettias grow well in moist soil and temperatures between 65 and 70 degrees F. They can be grown outdoors during summer. Poinsettias are not poisonous, but the sap may cause dermatitis.

What are Christmas flowers?

Christmas flowers are the popular flowers used during the festive season of Christmas. In many nations, seasonal flowers and plants such as Poinsettia, Christmas cactus, holly, Christmas rose, ivy and mistletoe form a major part of traditional Christmas decoration.

Does Home Depot sell poinsettias?

Live Poinsettia (In-Store Only)-6INP2013 - The Home Depot.