Did you know that Poinsettia is a plant that originally came from Mexico? There it can grow as much as 4 - 5 meters high.
The Latin name for the Poinsettia is Euphorbia pulcherrima. The Aztecs called it cuetlaxochitl, and according to their belief, it got its characteristic red color when the blood of a goddess dripped onto the leaves. In Norway, it is one of our most popular Christmas flowers, and it is available in pink, red, and white varieties.
Ideally, the Poinsettia should be kept at 12-14 degrees Celsius. Find a cool room for it to stay in overnight so it doesn't get too warm.
Keep the plant evenly moist by checking it every day. Don't let the soil get soggy or let it sit in water!
Keep the Poinsettia far away from direct sunlight on the windowsill, drafts from windows, hot ovens, and fruit trays. Ripening fruit emits methane gases that no plants or cut flowers thrive on.
Don't panic when the Poinsettia sheds its leaves, it is completely natural when it's been in low sunlight. Continue with regular watering until Easter, you can even start with weak fertilizer water. In May increase the fertilizer amount gradually to the recommended dose.
The Poinsettia will turn red again next year with short-day treatment. Put it in a dark cupboard for about twelve hours a day from the 1st of September. Water sparingly. After this treatment, the Poinsettia will bring back some festive spirit.
The plant being poisonous is a common misconception. It may still be a good idea to be careful: some people may have allergic reactions to the plant. Eating it can cause vomiting and diarrhea, and plant sap when it comes into contact with the eyes can cause temporary blindness.
Now you can send a gift from a local florist, made lovingly and delivered to your door.
Choose one of the Poinsettia below or see our entire wonderful Christmas range here.