Originally sold as cut flowers, poinsettias were not used as potted plants until the early 1920s. Poinsettias do well in the home and keep their color until mid-March. With proper light and temperature, they accumulate the anthocyanin pigments that give them their color. Male and female parts are present, along with a yellow-edged nectary with sweet, fragrant nectar. Selection Poinsettias come in many colors and forms.
New selections appear every year.
Choose a plant with dark green foliage. However, cultivars with lighter colored or mottled bracts typically have lighter green foliage. Plants with pale green, yellow or fallen leaves generally have a root disease problem, have been overwatered, had an excessive dry period, or received limited fertilization. Bracts should be well developed with little pollen showing on the flowers. When outside temperatures approach 35 degrees F, be sure the plant is well wrapped or sleeved before transporting.