Poinsettia Plants 

Native to Mexico, Poinsettia plants have become a staple feature of festive decorations in the UK. Although they are a favourite amongst plant lovers at Christmas, they aren’t exactly easy to care for. Poinsettias can be tricky plants to master. They are notoriously fussy and sensitive to temperature changes, so most people rarely survive past January. Thankfully, there are specific things you can do to ensure your Poinsettia plant lives to see another Christmas. Here is everything you need to know about caring for your Poinsettia throughout the festive season and all year round. 

Why Poinsettia Plants Are Popular At Christmas

It is currently estimated that over 2 million Poinsettias are sold every year, just in time for Christmas. Their festive red and green flowers scream festivity and are a great addition to your household decorations. So it may surprise you that the one piece of foliage to rival the Christmas tree wasn’t always a popular plant of choice. In their native country of Mexico, where Roman Catholicism is the predominant faith, Poinsettias are referred to as ‘Flor de la Noche Buena’, translating to Flower of the Holy Night. It is thought to have coined its name because it resembles the Star of Bethlehem. It is a popular Christmas flower that can be presented in a multitude of displays.

Initially regarded as a weed, Poinsettias gained popularity after a poor young girl gave the weeds as a gift at a nativity service. The angels showed compassion toward the young girl and transformed them into the red and green flowers we know and recognise today. The plants were later rediscovered by the American botanist Joel Roberts Poinsett. While carrying out duties as the US ambassador to Mexico, he stumbled across the ‘Mexican Fire Plant’ as he called them, introducing the festive foliage to America.

How To Care For Your Poinsettia So It Lasts All Year

1. Detailed Care Instructions

• Light Requirements: Poinsettias thrive in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can cause leaf scorch, so it's best to place them near a well-lit window without direct exposure.

• Watering Guidelines: Maintain slightly moist soil, allowing the top layer to dry before re-watering. Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.

• Temperature and Humidity: Keep poinsettias in environments between 16-21°C (60-70°F). Avoid placing them near drafts or heat sources to prevent leaf drop.

2. Year-Round Care Tips

• Post-Holiday Maintenance: After the festive season, prune the plant back to about 15 cm (6 inches) to encourage new growth. Continue regular watering and fertilise monthly during the growing season.

• Reblooming Techniques: To encourage poinsettias to rebloom, provide 14-16 hours of uninterrupted darkness daily for at least 10 weeks, starting in early autumn. This process, known as photoperiodism, is essential for flower initiation.

3. Common Issues and Solutions

• Leaf Drop: Often caused by sudden temperature changes or drafts. Ensure a stable environment and avoid placing the plant near doors or windows that open frequently.

• Pest Management: Watch for common pests like whiteflies and aphids. Regularly inspect the plant and treat infestations promptly with appropriate methods.

4. Safety Considerations

• Toxicity: While poinsettias are often believed to be highly toxic, they are generally considered safe, causing only mild irritation if ingested. However, it's advisable to keep them out of reach of pets and children.

Give The Gift Of a Plant This Christmas

If you have never taken care of a Poinsettia plant before, or you have tried and failed to keep it going longer than the Christmas dinner leftovers, why not try again this year? Following these crucial steps will set you well on the way to becoming a proud owner of a happy and flourishing Poinsettia year after year. If Poinsettias aren’t to your tastes or you are looking for the ideal gift for someone special, then we have plenty of other houseplants that would be a perfect place to start! We offer gift wrapping on all our Christmas plant gifts. Check out our Outdoor Pots & Planters selection for this Christmas. Next day delivery is available. Shop now and pay later with Klarna.

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