Holiday-Ready Poinsettia Variations to Enhance Your Decor
In the heart of the festive season, the poinsettia plant, with its iconic red and green foliage, brightens homes and public spaces alike. But did you know that the poinsettia world is far more diverse than you might think?
Poinsettias, scientifically known as Euphorbia pulcherrima, meaning 'most beautiful,' originated from Mexico and Central America. These plants, now available in more than 100 distinct varieties, have a captivating history that dates back to the Aztecs who used them for medicinal purposes and as dye plants.
The first poinsettia with purple bracts, aptly named 'Plum Pudding,' was introduced in 1958, adding a new dimension to the traditional red and green palette. Fast forward to the present day, and there's a poinsettia to suit every taste and decor.
One such unique variety is the 'Ice Punch' poinsettia, which boasts red and white lightening banding, while 'Winter Rose Early Red' is reminiscent of a rose in bloom with its bracts clustered together. For those seeking a more unconventional choice, 'Jingle Bells' offers light pink and white splashes of colour, and 'Cinnamon Star' boasts both orange and peach bracts accented with rosy hued edges.
The poinsettia's journey to becoming a beloved holiday plant began in the early 19th century when U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Joel Roberts Poinsett, brought the plant back to the United States. Hybridization of poinsettias began to create shorter, stockier plants suitable for homes in the early 20th century.
Mexico alone produces over 30 varieties, with popular ones including Freedom, Subdiji, and Prestige Red, which accounts for about 70% of Mexico City’s production. Other varieties like Joy Pink, White Red Angel, and Festival display colours in red, yellow, pink, white, striped, and marbled patterns.
Amy Grant, a professional gardener and chef with 30 years of gardening experience and 15 years of writing experience, is a notable figure in the world of poinsettias. Her expertise in culinary gardening has led to innovative uses of this versatile plant, adding another layer to its appeal.
The rich diversity of poinsettia varieties available today is a testament to the ongoing innovation in poinsettia breeding. With more than 100 distinct varieties cultivated worldwide and reports suggesting over 150 unique varieties, the poinsettia continues to be a vibrant spectacle of colour in our homes and gardens.
[1] Poinsettias: History, Cultivation, and Varieties. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/poinsettia/poinsettia-history-cultivation-and-varieties.htm [2] Poinsettias: Types, Care, and Uses. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/poinsettias-types-care-and-uses [4] The History of Poinsettias. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/the-history-of-poinsettias-3303344
Poinsettias, with their diverse array of varieties, are not just limited to traditionally red and green bracts. For instance, the 'Ice Punch' poinsettia exhibits red and white lightening banding, and 'Jingle Bells' offers light pink and white splashes of color.
The world of poinsettias expands beyond home-and-garden boundaries, as many varieties, such as the 'Ice Punch' and 'Jingle Bells,' are suitable for gardening due to their unique characteristics.
