National Poinsettia Day

Today is National Poinsettia Day! Poinsettias are “a culturally and commercially important plant species of the diverse spurge family that is indigenous to Mexico and Central America. It is particularly well known for its red and green foliage and is widely used in Christmas floral displays.” 

(Image found at: http://www.tparkerchurch.org/2013/11/2013-christmas-poinsettias/)

Fun Poinsettia Fact: the do not attract pollinators. 

As these plants are native Mexico, the Aztecs used to use the red leaves to make red dye! They also used it as a fever reliever (similar to an ibuprofen!). There is also a belief that poinsettias are toxic. This was belief began in the early 1900s, but has since been proven wrong. The sap, on the other hand, is extremely toxic and can even lead to temporary blindness! 

But on a more positive note, since about this same time, poinsettias have been a popular Christmas gift and decoration. These beautiful red flowers tie in well with the reds associated with this time of year. However, while this same red color seems to be best linked with Christmas, they do, in fact, come in other colors, such as white or pink. 

(Image found at: http://www.poinsettiaday.com/shop.html)

Which is your favourite? Tell us by voting on the Daily Poll!