Link to the Poinsettia picture

The temperatures finally dropped and it started to feel a little more like Christmas in the past few days. This year, I haven't seen the usual variety of poinsettia colors at plant nurseries but still, the beautiful red and off-white colored plants can't but draw one's attention... Native to Latin America and growing on mid-level slopes, facing the ocean, it is believed that the Aztecs cultivated poinsettias for medicinal use, such as treating fever and making a reddish purple dye for cosmetics and clothing. Some people use them to treat skin disorders or relieve pain. Be careful though: people with a latex allergy can suffer skin irritation from the plant's milky sap. Also, keep children and pets away from poinsettias which are mildly toxic and can cause an upset stomach.

Poinsettias have been widespread since the mid-19th century outside of Mexico and have since been commercialized during the Christmas period of the year. While in full bloom, poinsettias enjoy semi-cool and humid locations in bright but indirect light. However, avoid having the planter saucer filled with water for the roots not to rot. If you wish to keep the plant for another year, don't water it much until mid-April and keep it in a darker spot. When the weather is warmer, you can start moistening its soil more but it should be well drained. You can plant it in your garden or keep it in a planter. Make sure it gets enough light without being directly exposed to the summer sun: direct sunlight can burn the plant's leaves.

On another note, the poinsettia flower holds a spiritual symbolism. It is associated with jolly and cheerful times and most of us think of Christmas when we see them. It is then not a surprise when some cultures refer to it as La Flor de la Noche Buena (flower of the Holy Night / Christmas Eve). For the Aztecs, it was a symbol of purity. In Peru and Chile, it is named the Crown of the Andes, while in Spain people call it Flor de Pascua (Easter Flower). In Nepal and India, poinsettias signify the feminine life force and beauty. The biblical meaning of the red poinsettia is the grace and beauty of the Virgin Mother Mary as well as a reminder of the birth of Jesus Christ.

The red poinsettia stands for sacrifice. The white flowers mean forgiveness. The yellow poinsettia embodies gratitude and thankfulness. And the pink ones indicate feminine beauty. If you see other colors, such as blue or orange, know that these are dyes and if you choose to keep the plant, it will not display the same colors the next year.  If you happen to see poinsettias in your dreams, it can be a sign of happiness, peace, and warmth.

Happy gardening 🌺 and Merry Holidays 🎄