Partial Shade
Moderate care
Light watering
Tender
12b
USDA zone
13°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
4m | Max | 2.5m |
60cm | Min | 30cm |
2 years to reach maturity
Flowering
spring
summer
autumn
winter
This plant has no fragrance
More images of Poinsettia
Poinsettia Overview
Euphorbia pulcherrima is a shrub or small tree species from the Euphorbiaceae family. Mostly grown as a potted indoor plant, it is especially popular at Christmas time, due to its attractive leaves. Most of the foliage is made up of dark green leaves measuring between 7-16cm long. Brightly coloured modified leaf structures, termed bracts, are often mistaken for flower petals because of their red colour and arrangement at certain times of the year. Tiny yellow flowers are actually held in the middle of these. Poinsettia can be grown outdoors in frost-free regions and it may reach up to 4m in height. Ingestion may cause discomfort and contact with milky sap may irritate skin and eyes.
Common problems with Poinsettia
Poinsettia Companion Plants
Plant with other Euphorbias, Dusty Miller and Chrysanthemums.
How to harvest Poinsettia
Generally not harvested.
How to propagate Poinsettia
Cuttings
Take basal stem cuttings from late spring-early summer, dip ends in warm water to stop bleeding, root in well-draining seedling mix.
Special features of Poinsettia
Indoor plant
Excellent indoor plants but need uninterrupted long darkness followed by good light in autumn to produce coloured bracts.
Pot plant
Provide good drainage and airflow, but keep soil moist.
Attractive leaves
Winter colour
Colourful bracts appear in late autumn and winter.
Other uses of Poinsettia
Ornamental
Poinsettia is grown for the potted plant industry and is widely used as a Christmas decoration.
