6 Fascinating Facts About Poinsettias:- Get out of the way, mistletoe. The holiday season has arrived, and poinsettias, which are known for their cheery appearance, can be found everywhere you look. Despite the fact that the market for poinsettias is just around six weeks long, they are the most popular potted plant in the United States, and they contribute an astounding $250 million to the economy of our country each year.
6 Fascinating Facts About Poinsettias
During this time of year, numerous FFA chapters offer poinsettias, and customers are often anxious to include the colourful and flashy plants into their holiday decorations. If you continue reading, you will learn eight fascinating facts about this well-known festive plant.
Mexico’s History with Poinsettias
Mexico City at Christmas, decorated with vibrant poinsettias. People who even vaguely understand the origins of poinsettias may tell you that they are native to Mexico. There, they have a lengthy history. Aztecs used the milky sap for medicinal purposes and used the plants into crimson dye. As soon as Europeans brought Christianity to America, poinsettias became instantly connected with Christmas.
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A story from legend describes Pepita, a young, impoverished Mexican girl, who wanted to deliver a gift to the infant Jesus during the Christmas service. Pedro, her cousin, gave her encouragement, noting that “loveful gifts, even small ones, make Jesus happy.” She took some flowering weeds from the side of the road and placed them at the altar because she had nothing else to offer. They changed into dazzling red blossoms in a matter of moments—definitely a miracle.
From the World to Mexico
Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first Mexican ambassador, was appointed in 1825. He sent cuttings of poinsettias home to South Carolina since he was so enamoured with them. Every year, he would send them to friends and relatives from there.
Prominent botanist John Bartram was one of these pals, and it was he who sold them at the Philadelphia Flower Show and made them known to the rest of the globe. Poinsettias have come to represent Christmas worldwide over time.
Little Blossoms and Vibrant Leaves
Poinsettias’ red “flowers” aren’t really flowers at all. The plant’s little yellow blossoms are hidden in the middle of each leaf cluster. The bracts are the colourful leaves. The leaves are green at first and get bigger during the majority of the year.
When the plant receives at least 12 hours of total darkness per day, they start to turn crimson. The tiny blooms may not be recognised by pollinators if they are not attracted to them by coloured bracts.
Poinsettia Flowers Are Loved by Butterflies
In relation to pollinators, poinsettia flowers are a favourite among butterflies. To attract butterflies to your garden, put your poinsettias outside if you reside in a warmer climate with no frosts or freezes.
No, Poinsettias Are Not Toxic
Contrary to popular belief, poinsettias are not especially toxic. Despite the sap’s slight toxicity and potential for stomach upset, poinsettia consumption has not been linked to any human or animal fatalities. According to studies, a 50-pound youngster would actually need to consume 500 leaves before they would be seriously harmed. It seems doubtful that a youngster or cat would take more than one bite of poinsettia due to its strong bitterness.