The old myth first originated in 1919, when a child in Hawaii suddenly died unexpectedly. The doctors incorrectly assumed that that the child died from an ingested poinsettia leaf, and the legend began. Petitti Garden Center grows all the poinsettias for sale in their stores. From traditional reds and pinks to the marble, white and salmon varieties, Petitti's grows over 55,000 of these holiday plants in their greenhouses in Columbia Station. Petitti's takes great care in transporting and displaying their poinsettias.
Poinsettias release a gas that can harm the plant.
Boxing and sleeves do not allow this gas to escape, and will cause the leaves from your plant to drop. After purchasing your plant, be sure that it is covered as you take it home. This is very important, because even brief exposure to cold temperatures will cause the leaves of your plant to turn black. Once the plant is back inside, immediately remove the protective wrapping. During the holiday season, it's very easy for you to neglect your plants, especially those that have just been added to your home as holiday decoration.