A Designer’s Guide to Poinsettias

Why This Classic Plant Remains a Seasonal Favorite for Plantscapers and Interior Designers

Any designer preparing holiday plantscapes has to consider the poinsettia — this iconic plant has become synonymous with Christmas decorating. It’s such a part of the holiday season that it even has its own special day: December 12 is National Poinsettia Day, a celebration dedicated to the poinsettia’s introduction to the United States. In this post, we’ll share some fascinating poinsettia facts, the history behind National Poinsettia Day, tips on how to care for poinsettias inside, and even more insights into why these festive plants are so popular!

National Poinsettia Day: Honoring Joel Roberts Poinsett

National Poinsettia Day, observed on December 12, honors the life and contributions of Joel Roberts Poinsett, the U.S. Ambassador to Mexico in the 1820s. While in Mexico, Poinsett discovered the striking red plant, became captivated by its beauty, and brought it back to the United States (University of Illinois Extension).

However, the poinsettia plant had been used by the Aztecs long before Poinsett’s discovery. The Aztecs referred to it as Cuetlaxochitl, meaning “flower with leather petals,” and used it many ways, including making dye and treating fevers. 

The day not only celebrates the plant’s beauty but also marks Poinsett’s death in 1851. National Poinsettia Day serves as a reminder of the rich history and cultural significance of this plant and honors Poinsett’s contribution to botany.

Designing With Poinsettias

Poinsettias are undoubtedly the most popular potted plant during the holiday season – and for good reason! According to The University of Illinois Extension, poinsettias are the best-selling potted plant in the United States with over $220 million worth of them sold annually during the holiday season.

Designers often incorporate poinsettias into holiday arrangements due to their vibrant colors and iconic status as a symbol of the season. The rich red, white, and pink varieties of poinsettias provide a festive focal point in wreaths, centerpieces, and garlands. They are frequently paired with complementary elements such as evergreen branches, pinecones, and ribbons to create visually striking, seasonal displays. Designers may arrange poinsettias in various forms, from traditional table settings to modern, minimalist designs. Their bold blooms add texture and color, enhancing the festive atmosphere and evoking the warmth and joy of the holiday season.

Despite the wide array of colors available, red remains the most popular choice for many Americans, with about 74% of people preferring this classic holiday hue. However, the versatility of the poinsettia ensures that there’s a perfect variety for every home and holiday display.

Our Favorite Poinsettia Planters

How to Care for Poinsettias

Poinsettias may be associated with the festive season, but taking care of them indoors can help keep them thriving long after the holidays are over. Here’s everything you need to know about how to care for poinsettias inside and ensure they stay healthy for your clients throughout the season.

Poinsettia Care Indoors

Poinsettias are relatively easy to care for indoors, but they do need specific conditions to stay healthy and vibrant, especially in commercial settings. Here are some essential tips for poinsettia plant care in your plantscapes:

1. Light: Poinsettias need bright, indirect light. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, which can cause the leaves to scorch and ruin your design aesthetic. A sunny window that doesn’t get intense midday sun is ideal.
2. Temperature: Keep your poinsettia in a room with a temperature between 60 and 70°F. Avoid placing them near drafts, air conditioning vents, or heating sources as they are sensitive to extreme temperature changes. This means poinsettias aren’t the best choice for business entryways or vestibules where doors frequently open and let in the chill. 
3. Watering: When it comes to your maintenance schedule for clients, you’ll want to water poinsettias when the soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Ensure the pot has proper drainage to allow excess water to escape.
4. Fertilizing: Poinsettias don’t need fertilizing during the holiday season and so won’t require it if you’re disposing of them when you change out a client’s plantscape in January. However, if you want to keep them alive past the holidays, you can start feeding them with a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
5. Pruning: Likewise, seasonal displays won’t need pruning. But if desired, after the holidays you can prune poinsettias back to about six inches in height to encourage new growth. In the spring, they can be moved to a warmer location and watered regularly.

Special tip for long-term care: Poinsettias need 6-8 weeks of long nights (12-14 hours of darkness) to bloom again. If you want your poinsettia to bloom next year, consider moving it to a darker room for this period starting in the fall.

How do you like to display poinsettias? Browse the holiday wraps selection at NewPro Containers and see how you can showcase their festive beauty.

Fun Facts About Poinsettias

Did you know women account for 80% of poinsettia purchases? How about the fact that poinsettias can grow up to 12 feet in their native habitat? Learn these facts and more in our National Poinsettia Day infographic below.