About Poinsettia plant : grow Tips and care

Poinsettia plant scientific name - Euphorbia pulcherrima. They are native to Mexico and Central America. It grows moist, wet and on a rock hillside. They are found in deciduous forest and are a popular holiday plant because of colorful bracts (leaves). They are mostly used for decoration during winter holidays.

Although Poinsettias change color in response to shorter winter days. Poinsettia flowers are actually made up of the bracts, which look like petals, and the tiny yellow flowers in the center, called Cynthia. Similarly the colorful bracts attract insects to the flowers and will drop after pollination.
Poinsettia are not harmful to animal or human health. But they should not be eaten. 

• Sticky white sap can cause a skin rash, so gloves are recommended when working with these plants. 
• Wash tools well after use as they can make tools sticky.
• Avoid contact with eyes and mouth.

• Put in the south, east or west window where the plant will receive bright daylight. 
• Outdoor light - part sun, 4–7 hours daily.
• Temperature -
  • Indoor temperature of 60-75 F is ideal temperature. 
  • Don't keep the plant where the temperature fluctuates, such as heat ducts, space heaters etc. 
  • Freezing temperatures will kill poinsettia. 

 

• Keep the soil moist. 
• Water plant when the soil feels dry to touch. 
• Never allow Poinsettia pots to sit in excess water. 
• Constant wetness will cause plant rot. 
• Continuing watering needed January through March.

 

• In late spring or early summer, transplant your poinsettia into a container (3 to 6 inch) bigger than the original pot.
• Mix in organic matter such as coco peat, moss, compost. So this will help to moist the soil.

If cared for properly the plant, the plant will last 2 - 3 months and keep at least 6 hours of sunlight. 

 

Plant Type	Perennial and shrub
Mature Size	3 -10 ft. tall, 3–7 ft. wide
Sun Exposure	Full and partial (at least 6 hours)
Soil Type	Loamy soil and well-drained
Soil pH	Through Neutral to acidic
Bloom Time	Winter
Flower Color	Yellow; bracts (modified leaves) are usually red, but other colors are available
Hardiness Zones	Through 9 to 11 (USDA)
Toxicity	Mild symptoms to dogs and cats, but not poisonous.  The white sap can have allergic properties for people with latex allergies.