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Poinsettia

In many Polish homes a red poinsettia means Christmas is near. Its colorful "flowers" are actually leaves surrounding tiny yellow blooms.

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A Christmas plant

The poinsettia, called gwiazda betlejemska (star of Bethlehem) in Polish, appears at florists in November and December. It is a classic gift when visiting family over the holidays, for St. Nicholas Day on 6 December or for a work gathering before Christmas Eve, Wigilia. Besides red, there are white, cream, pink and marbled varieties. White and cream suit Scandinavian-style decorations, while red goes with a traditional tree and gold baubles. It looks good with other winter plants such as amaryllis or cyclamens.

Poinsettia care

Poinsettias hate cold and drafts. If yours arrives on a frosty day, unwrap it straight away in a warm room. Keep it in a bright spot at 18 to 22°C, away from balcony doors. Water moderately once the top of the soil is dry and do not leave water standing in the outer pot. The milky sap from damaged stems can irritate the skin, so wear gloves when trimming.

Frequently asked questions

Why is my poinsettia dropping leaves?

Usually cold during transport, drafts or overwatering. It also reacts to sudden moves. Give it a steady, warm, bright spot and water only when the topsoil is dry.

Will a poinsettia color up again next year?

It can, with patience. From October it needs several weeks of long nights, about 14 hours of complete darkness a day, for the leaves to color again.