While the poinsettia is the traditional plant of the Christmas season, the holiday cactus, cyclamen, and Norfolk Island pine are also excellent holiday plants. Regardless of which plant you choose, careful selection and proper care should insure enjoyment during the holiday season. Poinsettia Poinsettias are available in red, pink, white, and gold. There are also variegated and marbled poinsettias.
Modern varieties are compact, durable, and hold their bracts for several weeks.
Select plants with dark green foliage and brightly colored bracts. Little or no pollen should be showing on the true flowers. Avoid poinsettias with wilted foliage, few or no lower leaves, or broken stems. Also, check the undersides of the leaves for insects. Obviously, no one wants to bring an insect-infested plant into the house.