The Poinsettia

Poinsettias are traditionally used in holiday centerpieces and floral arrangements during the Christmas season.  They have big green leaves, and their bracts, sometimes referred to as the flower of the plant, can be red, pink, white, and yellow.

In Mexico, its native habitat, the poinsettia grows outside as a perennial shrub, while in colder areas, the plant is kept inside and typically blooms for four to six weeks, then dies back. With special care and attention, it is possible to get a poinsettia to re-bloom.

In my personal experience, the best way to keep the soil of a poinsettia plant evenly moist is to water it with ice cubes. Once a week, or as often as needed, I place three to four cubes around the base of the plant and let them melt.

Although reports differ as to whether poinsettias are poisonous to pets, most sources agree that animals who eat the plant may vomit, drool, itch, and /or develop an upset stomach. So, to keep your pets healthy and your floors and furniture puke-free, display your poinsettia in an out-of-reach place.