December’s plant of the month has to be with out a doubt the Poinsettia! Every winter these stunning star shaped flowers make us feel all joyful and festive – earning them the nicknames of Christmas Star or Christmas Flower. They look fabulous displayed as a table centre piece, or nestled in the fireplace, and make a really great hostess gift if you are invited for Christmas dinner! Here at Magnolia the Florist in Kettering, Poinsettias are alwasy a popular choice with our local customers. So what is the story behind the Poinsettia?

Why give a Poinsettia at Christmas time?

The Poinsettia is associated with Christmas time for several reasons – their prime flowering time is in winter months, the large star shaped flowers and the traditional red colour linked to Christmas.

Where do Poinsettia originate from?

These gorgeous plants are native to Central America, which is why they love a warm growing environment. They were discovered by American Joel Roberts Poinsett (hence the name Poinsettia!) on his travels in the 1820’s, who loved the flower so much he brought it home with him to cultivate and share with the wider world.

How to spot a Poinsettia plant?

These are really quite unique looking plants; when in flower they have large star shaped flowers in red, white or pink. They have dark forest green leaves and a woody stem.

What colours are available?

The Poinsettia is most iconic in its rich ruby red colour, but is also very popular in bright white or baby pink. The plant flowers throughout winter months, with December and January being the peak times for the star shaped, colourful flowers to emerge.

What do Poinsettia symbolise?

Considered by the ancient Aztecs to be a symbols of purity, in today’s flower language the Poinsettia  represent happiness and success. The Poinsettia is also the December birth flower and is seen as a sign of well wishes and celebration – making a Poinsettia a perfect birthday gift for people born in December.

Fun Poinsettia Fact

The Poinsettia is also the national emblem of Madagascar.

How to look after your Poinsettia?

Due to originating from a hot climate, your Poinsettia will love a bright and warm space inside your home. Avoid putting the Poinsettia in a drafty spot or where the temperature drops lots over night, as he won’t be happy with blasts of cold air.

Water your Poinsettias when the surface of the soil feels dry – they really don’t like being over watered so best to do a sprinkle at a time. It is also worth misting your Poinsettia regularly with water, as they like humidity and this can help extend the flowering time.

Fallen in love with the Poinsettia?

As part of the Magnolia the Florist Christmas Collection we have a fabulous Christmas Poinsettia Gift Set – perfect for sending some festive cheer to someone special or for a December birthday treat. Our Poinsettia Gift Set includes a Poinsettia plant, box of luxurious chocolates and bottle of wine – available to order online now for same day local delivery!