When it comes to holiday decor, few plants are as iconic as the poinsettia. With its vibrant red and green foliage, the poinsettia has become a symbol of Christmas cheer. At Bob’s Garden Center, we’re proud to offer homegrown poinsettias cultivated for quality and beauty, perfect for brightening your home this holiday season. Here, we share everything you need to know about the history and care of poinsettias, so you can keep yours healthy and thriving throughout the holidays.

The History of Poinsettias: How They Became the Christmas Plant

The poinsettia, or Euphorbia pulcherrima, originated in southern Mexico and Central America, where it was known as “Cuetlaxochitl” by the Aztecs, who prized the plant for its vibrant red color and used it in dye-making and medicinal practices. The plant’s association with Christmas traces back to 16th-century Mexico, with the legend of a young girl named Pepita. Unable to afford a gift for Jesus on Christmas Eve, she gathered weeds by the roadside. When she brought them to the church, they blossomed into beautiful red flowers—the poinsettia.

In the 1820s, Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first U.S. ambassador to Mexico, encountered the plant and brought it back to the United States, where it was eventually named in his honor. Over time, it grew in popularity and became synonymous with Christmas, thanks to its festive red and green colors that perfectly complement holiday decor. Today, the poinsettia is celebrated each December 12th on National Poinsettia Day, a tribute to Poinsett’s contribution and the plant’s enduring role in holiday tradition.

Caring for Your Poinsettias: Tips from Bob’s Garden Center

Once you bring home a poinsettia, a few simple steps can keep it looking fresh and beautiful throughout the holiday season:

1. Light Requirements
   Poinsettias thrive in bright, indirect light. Place them near a window where they can receive natural light, but avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
2. Temperature
   Poinsettias prefer a steady temperature between 65-70°F during the day and about 60°F at night. Keep them away from drafts, heaters, or cold windows, as sudden temperature changes can cause leaves to drop.
3. Watering
   Proper watering is key to a healthy poinsettia. Check the soil daily and water when the top layer feels dry to the touch. When you water, make sure to remove any excess water from the saucer to prevent root rot.
4. Humidity
   Poinsettias prefer moderate humidity levels, so avoid placing them near heating vents. If your home is particularly dry, consider placing a small humidifier nearby or misting the plant lightly every few days.
5. Pruning and Reblooming
   After the holiday season, poinsettias can be pruned back to about six inches to encourage new growth. With proper care, you can keep them year-round and even rebloom the following winter by adjusting light exposure in the fall.

Get Ready for the Holidays: Home Decor and Gift Ideas from Bob’s

Visit Bob’s Garden Center for Beautiful, Homegrown Poinsettias

At South Jersey’s Bob’s Garden Center, our homegrown poinsettias are nurtured with care to ensure the healthiest plants for your holiday decor. Available in classic reds as well as pink, white, and variegated varieties, they add warmth and cheer to any space. Plus, our knowledgeable staff is here to offer expert advice on poinsettia care, from picking the right plant to keeping it thriving through the season.

Stop by Bob’s Garden Center in Egg Harbor Township to bring home a stunning poinsettia and add a touch of holiday history and color to your celebrations. From our family to yours, we wish you a joyful and festive season with the timeless beauty of poinsettias!