A lot of people are looking at what color goes best with their home interiors and holiday decorations. Red, pink or white, all poinsettias have the same watering requirements. Overwatering the plants is the most common mistake, Johns says. Too much water will cause leaves to yellow and drop, signaling the end is near. If it's in an 8-inch pot, give it a little more water.
Fertilizer helps keep the color in the foliage.
Poinsettias are not poisonous, according to researchers. However, the plants should be placed in spots away from small children and pets as nibbling on the foliage could cause stomach discomfort. Both pronunciations are correct. The poinsettia is native to Mexico, where it has reached heights of 16 feet. Growers in Europe and California scaled down its size to meet indoor requirements.