Poinsettia

Christmas poinsettias are scientifically known as "Euphorbia pulcherrima". And the literal meaning of this is the "most beautiful Euphorbia". The common name of Christmas poinsettias is derived from when Joel Roberts Poinsett, who was the first U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, brought the first Christmas poinsettias to the United States in the year 1828.

There is also a wonderful legend associated with these flowering plants. The fable started long ago when a peasant lass in Mexico, had to face a difficulty on Holy Night. She did not have the means to give a present in the Christ Child ceremony at her church. The custom was that all the children gave gifts. The young girl did not know what to do and thinking that it is "the thought that counts", she collected some weeds while going to the church and she made a small bouquet.

When she got to the church she realized that it was time for her to give her gift. She then saw that the weeds in her hands had become something colorful and beautiful. They had turned into gorgeous red Christmas poinsettias. And this is how the legend of the poinsettia came to be.

Presently, we relate these plants to the holiday seasons. In Mexico, the sub-tropical plants are flowering bushes that grow to approximately 12 feet high. Since they are not able to grow in the north, they are raised completely indoors in order to have them available for our holiday season.

Although the poinsettia plant can grow all year long, they are most popular during the holiday season. They're raised in hothouses and sold in pots during the Christmas & New Year season. These bright blooms are very much in demand as Christmas presents, and recipients are pleased to display them in their homes.

Many people think that these plants come only in the color red. But you also get them in white, yellow, and pink colors and in various other color combinations. You can even get the marbled kind which many consider to be the most attractive. You'll usually get them from florists in a range of sizes. You can also order holiday flowers online. Usually the average height of the potted plant is around 2 feet, not including the container.