Euphorbia pulcherrima

Poinsettia

About

The poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) is one of the most prominent flowers used in many Christmas displays during the winter months. For this reason the poinsettia is also known as the Christmas Star. The poinsettia comes from the species of diverse spurge family, Euphorbiaceae. Further, this plant is native to Mexico and was brought to the US in 1825. It received its name for the man who originally brought it into the US, Joel Roberts Poinsett, who was the first US Minster to Mexico.

Poinsettia are considered a shrub or small tree. They range in height from two feet to as much as thirteen feet. Their red flowers are one reason why they work so well in Christmas displays, although the flower can come in other colors. The colors span from a vibrant red, to pale green, cream, pink, and white. In early stages of the growing the flowers can be mistaken for the petals because in the later stages does the poinsettia’s flowers come into color. Interestingly, the poinsettia can be found in the hot, seasonally dry forests of Mexico but yet it’s popularity comes mainly in the winter months.