Are there poinsettia trees?
Poinsettias can grow into small, scraggly trees in their native environment, reaching 10 to 15 feet tall, but you can control their size by pinching them back. (Although we refer to the colorful parts of poinsettias as the flowers, those are actually modified leaves, or bracts.
How long do poinsettia trees last?
“Home gardeners generally keep their poinsettias one or two years. If they’re really dedicated, maybe a little longer. But the life span for interior plants when you live in the North is measured in months, not years.”
Where do poinsettia trees grow?
Native to Mexico, poinsettias are in the Euphorbia family and are a popular holiday plant because of their colorful bracts (leaves). There is also a species that is used as a cut flower. They are most commonly used for decorating during the winter holidays, but are also attractive as green plants throughout the year.
Are poinsettia trees poisonous?
Poinsettia plants are less toxic than once believed. In most cases, poinsettia exposure causes only discomfort, including: A mild, itchy rash. Skin contact with the sap of a poinsettia plant can cause a rash.
Why does my poinsettia drop its leaves?
Poinsettias will classically drop their leaves if they are exposed to sudden changes in temperature, drafts or overly cool or dry rooms. They also will lose leaves and wilt in response to an extreme need for water. When choosing a plant, pick a healthy, full one with no discoloration on the foliage.
Why are poinsettias the Christmas plant?
There are a few proclaimed reasons why Poinsettia is connected to the holidays, Christmas in particular. The star shape of the plant’s flowers are said to represent the Star of Bethlehem, the guiding star that led the three kings the place Christ was born.
When to plant Poinsettia?
All container plants need good soil, the right size container and excellent drainage, and poinsettias are no exception. The optimum time for transplanting is late spring to early summer. The University of Minnesota recommends June 15 as your target date.
Does Poinsettia need sun?
Light: Poinsettias need a minimum of six hours of bright (but not direct) sunlight each day. Temperature: These plants prefer temperatures from 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day with a drop from 60 to 65 degrees at night. The lower night temperatures help the poinsettias keep their brilliant color.
Where is Poinsettia typically grown?
Habitat. Poinsettias are native to tropical forests of southern Mexico and Central America, where they grow in the wild as bushes or small trees. In the rest of the world, the poinsettia is used either as a landscaping shrub, or most popularly as a potted plant indoors, especially during the holidays.