The poinsettia, a vibrant plant native to Mexico and Central America, is strongly associated with the December holiday season. Its colorful bracts, often mistaken for petals, range from the classic crimson red to shades of pink, white, and even marbled varieties. These bracts surround the actual flowers, which are small and yellow, located at the center of the bract cluster.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the poinsettia carries cultural and historical weight. In Mexico, it symbolizes the Star of Bethlehem and forms part of Christmas tradition. Its introduction to the United States in the early 19th century by Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first U.S. Minister to Mexico, led to its widespread popularity and association with winter festivities. The plant’s vibrant color and relatively short blooming period contribute to its perceived value during a time often associated with shorter days and colder weather.
