The true flowers are the small yellow buttons in the centers of the bracts. Look for plants with fully mature, thoroughly colored and expanded bracts, and small green flower buds. Select plants with dark green foliage down to the soil line. This indicates a healthy root system. Reject plants with damaged or discolored foliage and select symmetrical plants in proportion to their containers.
Durable plants promise weeks of enjoyment.
Look for strong, stiff stems, good leaf and bract retention, and no signs of wilting, breaking or drooping. Carefully inspect packaged poinsettias before purchasing them. Poinsettias left in sleeves for an extended period of time may become unhealthy. Transport poinsettias carefully. Strong winds or short term exposure to temperatures below 40 degrees can permanently damage the plants.