Euphorbia pulcherrima
TAXONOMY
FamilyEuphorbiaceae
GenusEuphorbia
Zone10
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Euphorbia pulcherrima, commonly known as the poinsettia, is a shrub native to Mexico and Central America. It is well-known for its bright red and green foliage and is often used in Christmas floral displays. The plant prefers seasonally dry tropical climates and can grow up to 4 meters tall in its natural habitat. It has a dormancy period of about 2 months during which it requires less water.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Christmas Flower
Christmas-Flower
Christmas-Star
Nochebuena
Pleuradena Coccinea
Euphorbia coccinea
Euphorbia diversifolia
Euphorbia erythrophylla
Euphorbia fastuosa
Euphorbia lutea
Euphorbia poinsettiana
Euphorbia poinsettii
Euphorbia pulcherrima f. lutea
Poinsettia
Poinsettia pulcherrima
Poinsettia pulcherrima var. albida
Poinsettia pulcherrima var. roseocarminata
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy2 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Poinsettias thrive in bright, indirect light and moderate temperatures. They prefer a humid environment and should be watered when the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid exposing the plant to drafts or sudden temperature changes. Regular misting can help maintain humidity levels.Soil
Poinsettias prefer well-draining loamy soil. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and garden soil works well. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. Reduce fertilization during the dormancy period.Repotting
Repot poinsettias every 1-2 years in the spring. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, shake off excess soil, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil mix.Propagation
Poinsettias can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings in late spring or early summer, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and plant in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment until they root.Pruning
Prune poinsettias in late winter or early spring to maintain their shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems. Pinch back the tips of new growth to promote branching.Toxicity
Poinsettias are mildly toxic to pets and humans. The sap can cause skin irritation, and ingestion may lead to mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Keep the plant out of reach of pets and children.Additional
To encourage poinsettias to bloom again, reduce watering and keep the plant in a cool, dark place for about 14 hours each night for 8-10 weeks starting in the fall. This simulates the shorter daylight hours of winter and helps trigger blooming.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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