the poinsettia. in mexico, it is called flores de noche buena (flowers of the holy night). legend says that a young girl wished to give the baby jesus a gift, but had no money. as she headed to visit the baby, she picked up weeds along the roadside. as she approached the manger, the weeds suddenly transformed into the vibrant red flower.
FLASH FORWARD 14th century(ish)
aztecs use the white sap stored in the plant (mistakenly thought to be poisonous to humans) to reduce fevers. also, they use the plant to make red dye.
FLASH FORWARD 1825
joel robert poinsett...the united states first ambassador to mexico (who also happens to be the founder of the smithsonian institute!) finds a plant that blooms in the short days around christmas, in southern mexico, and brings them to the united states.
FLASH FORWARD today
the poinsettia is now a holiday favorite, symbolizing a wish of good cheer, success, and celebration. but, do you know how to care for your poinsettia? i don't...which is why i did some research...so here's a bit of advice from me...the queen of black thumbs:
- light: your poinsettia is a tropical plant and will appreciate as much direct sunlight as you can give it...
- heat: again, your poinsettia is a tropical plant. try to maintain a temp of 65-70 degrees...and don't let it touch a cold window or be exposed to a draft.
- water: water your poinsettia whenever the surface feels dry to the touch. water until it pours out of the bottom, but don't let it sit in the water.
- humidity: because homes tend to be dry, especially in winter, you may find you have to water your plant every day.
it's possible to keep your poinsettia alive through the year, and re~bloom for the following christmas...but, if you are anything like me, that's just NOT going to happen...however! if you are braver than me click here for more info...
happy planting!!
^poinsettias...responsible for the death of frosty? yep^
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