When it comes to Christmas some of the most beautiful ‘decorations’ are fresh flowers and, while there are several associated with the season, bold red and white poinsettias are a favourite with many.
Although they come in several colours it is the striking red and white blooms with green leaves which are most associated with Christmas. In religious circles it is said those large red bracts represent the blood of Christ while the small, star-shaped yellow flower at the centre is said to represent the Star of Bethlehem.
Native to Southern Mexico, these plants can grow as large shrubs or small trees but it is smaller, indoor potted plants which have gained favour.
Interestingly, both the Aztecs and the Mayans used the plant for medicinal purposes and as a dye. One Mexican legend tells of a small girl, Maria, who couldn’t afford to buy Christmas gifts.
An angel is said to have instructed her to gather weeds as gifts and place them near the church altar. When Maria placed the plants down, they morphed into bright red poinsettias.
Since then, these plants have been associated with the yuletide season.
The name poinsettia actually emerged after botanist, Joel Roberts Poinsett, became a USA minister to Mexico. While there he discovered the beautiful plants and in 1826, he sent some home.
Over time, he cultivated the plants in his South Carolina greenhouses. Plants later made their way across to England and, as their popularity grew, people began referring to them as poinsettias.
Of course, this year, florists will undoubtedly see potted poinsettias being snapped up for gifts and why not? Aside from their beautiful blooms, poinsettias are said to symbolise joy, cheer, success, goodwill and community spirt, so in keeping with Christmas.
