Poinsettias were introduced into the US by Joel Roberts Poinsett who brought a plant across the border from Mexico in the year 1825. They are now one of the most popular florist items sold during the month of December and by far the most popular plant. It's festive coloring and unique shape have made the Poinsettia a favorite holiday gift across the US.
Most people believe that Poinsettias boast huge flowers in red, white, pink, and other varieties. However, the truth is, these brightly colored "petals" are actually specialized leaves called "bracts". The cluster of bracts does the work of attracting pollinators to the real flowers, which are the tiny yellow and red bulbs in the center of the cluster. The uniqueness of this plant and the look of its specialized leaves is part of why it has become so popular.
As beautiful and unique as they are, many people have chosen to avoid the Poinsettia claiming the plant is wildly toxic to any child or pet who wanders near to have a taste. This rumor has been going around since 1919 and we've all heard it. But the fact is that the poinsettia is not toxic enough to harm anyone. The American Veterinary Medicine Association does not even include it on its list of plants that may be harmful to pets.
Numerous studies have been conducted to test the alleged toxicity of the plant. One study in particular was conducted at Ohio State University and involved the feeding of various parts of the poinsettia plant to test rats. Even in extremely large doses, the plant had no ill effects.
Study results released by Poisindex (a major source for poison control centers) states that it would take over a pound, or at least 500 Poinsettia leaves or bracts for a small child to eat an amount that would be considered toxic in any way. A quantity this high would probably cause upset stomach, and possibly vomiting. But eating one pound of pretty much anything would give you the same results.
Really, the only risk this plant poses to anyone is that its sap can be a mild irritant, and individuals with latex allergies should avoid handling them.
As the general public begins to find this information available to them on websites and blogs like this one, hopefully the fear of "Poinsettia poisoning" will dissipate and more and more people will be able to appreciate this lovely plant for all it has to offer.
Poinsettia plants come in a huge variety of colors and shapes including naturally cultivated, and artificially dyed varieties. The favorite of most, is the classic Red, which actually comes in several shades and shapes. "Snowcap White" is probably the second most popular choice for the holidays. There are also several shades of pink which are growing in popularity. Then there are the combination and variegated colors such as:
"Marble"- a pink and white variety.
"Jingle Bells" - typically red with pink flecks.
"Burgundy" - usually "Cortez Burgundy", a deep purplish red.
There are dozens of other varieties with fun names like "Ice Punch", "Peppermint Pink", "Shimmer", "Strawberries & Cream" and "Apricot Candy", each brandishing their own unique combo of colors ranging from bright white and yellow to shades of pink, and red.
Dyed and glittered plants are now available as well. This year, for the first time, The Flower Cart is carrying both Blue and Purple glittered Poinsettias.
With over 100 different varieties on the market today, the appeal of this plant is steadily growing and each year over 50 million are sold in the United States alone. And with the myth of toxicity behind us, the Poinsettia is sure to remain a holiday favorite for years to come.
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