The Poinsettia, Euphorbia pulcherimma, is one of the most popular flowering plants at Christmas. The bright red colour can instantly infuse the home with Christmas spirit. Also known as the Winter Rose, the poinsettia is a native to Central America where the Aztecs used this plant to make purple dyes and cures for various ailments. The plant was introduced in 1825, to America by the first Ambassador from the USA to Mexico whose last name was Poinsette – hence the name.
Caring for this plant is easy. They need bright but filtered light so keep them away from strong sun. A minimum temperature of 13-15C is preferred. Keep them away from draughts and don’t allow the leaves to touch cold windows. Water needed only sparingly, when surface of compost has begun to dry. To extend the flowering life you can mist as they like a bit of humidity.
If you are feeling adventurous and would like to try to get a good display the second year, try this:
Prune back to about 10cm in April and repot in a light cool place for the summer – 15 – 18C is good.
Because the flower colour is initiated by the short winter day, from November onwards, plants should be placed in a dark room (with NO artificial light) after twelve hours of daylight. At this point a minimum temperature of 18C is necessary.
At Powerscourt Garden Pavilion we have red, white and pink Pointsettias priced between €9.99 and €19.99. Come in and choose a pot to complete it. A chocolate treat from our selection here, paired with this gorgeous plant makes a perfect gift.
Mary Weiss,
Horticulturalist at Powerscourt Garden Pavilion
Caring for this plant is easy. They need bright but filtered light so keep them away from strong sun. A minimum temperature of 13-15C is preferred. Keep them away from draughts and don’t allow the leaves to touch cold windows. Water needed only sparingly, when surface of compost has begun to dry. To extend the flowering life you can mist as they like a bit of humidity.
If you are feeling adventurous and would like to try to get a good display the second year, try this:
