The Christmas Flower - Poinsettia
Legend of the Poinsettia
How does a plant used by the Aztecs for medicinal purposes and dyes become the quintessential Christmas flower? It began with the legend of the poinsettia. Legend has it that a poor Mexican girl named Pepita had no gift to give at the annual Christmas Eve service. Longing to honor the Virgin Mary and the Christ child, Peptia became distraught as she walked to the service. As tears flow from her face, she was comforted by an angel, her brother or her cousin (depending on the version). At the urging of her comforter, Peptia gathered a handful of common weeks from the roadside. Hesitant to take the unattractive weeds as her gift, Peptia had to be persuaded that giving something perceived as unworthy but from the heart was an admirable gift. Arriving at the church, Peptia sorrowfully placed her weeks as an offering on the alter. Joy overcame her when, as the weeds touched the alter, they burst into stunning red poinsettia blooms. From that day forward the poinsettia was known as Flor de Nochebuena (The Christmas Flower).
Poinsettia Care
Keeping the soil moist, but not soggy, is essential when caring for poinsettias. This can be accomplished by watering it thoroughly when the soil is dry to the touch. Make sure the container has drain holes. It is imperative to remove any excess water from the saucer. Poinsettias do best in high humidity with a temperature range of 60 degrees at night and 72 degrees during the day. Avoid exposing poinsettias to temperatures swings, cold drafts, heating vents or doorways. Poinsettias need approximately six hours of indirect light. Do not fertilize when the plant is blooming. Temperature swings, over-watering, under watering, over exposure and lack of light will cause stress to the poinsettia. Stress of any type will cause the bracts to have a shorter life. Poinsettia care if done properly will keep your plant healthy for a long time.
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Reprinted with permission from flowershopnetwork.com