How Do I Keep My Poinsettia Healthy?

Native to Mexico and a relative to the Croton, the poinsettia have become a holiday staple in the United States. They are the number one potted plant sold in the United States.

Poinsettias have bracts, a modified leaf in place of a flower, that come in array of reds, pinks, and whites. Here are a few tips to care for your Christmas poinsettias:

• Poinsettias should be kept in bright, indirect light, away from areas that have heavy cold drafts (such as doorways). Poinsettias should be kept in a climate of around 70ºF.

• Allow the soil in the pot to dry between waterings. The roots of the plant should never be sitting in water, so ensure that the bottom of the pot has drainage holes.

• If you receive your poinsettia in foiling, it is recommended that you unsleeve it immediately upon receiving. Keeping your poinsettias in the sleeves for too long may result in their leaves yellowing or falling off, as well as their roots to experience root rot from excess moisture. (Root rot is the number one reason that poinsettias fail!)

How can I get a poinsettia?

Each year there are more than 65 million poinsettias sold in the United States during their six-week season of availability. Although you may be able to find them at convince stores, we recommend buying them from a nursery or wholesale nursery for quality and size.

Are poinsettias dangerous to have in my house if I have small children or pets?

Although, some people and animals might experience an allergic reactions to their sap (rash, vomiting), the Society of American Florists and Ohio State University conducted a scientific investigation that disproved the common belief that poinsettias are harmful to humans and animals. It states that a 50-pound child would have to ingest over 500 bracts to surpass the experimental doses. There was no toxicity at this level.