The Festive Plant You’re Probably Saying Wrong

These stunning plants are not just seasonal décor—they’re perennial shrubs native to Mexico, and their real name is sometimes tongue-twister for many. Here’s the scoop:

The Name Game: Poinsettias are named after Joel Poinsett, the first U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, who fell in love with this vibrant plant in the 1820s. The “ia” at the end is a Latin suffix that means “belonging to”—so, poinsettia literally means “of Poinsett.” But here’s the kicker: it’s pronounced poin-set-tee-uh, not poin-set-ah! (Don’t worry, we won’t judge!) But Poinsett doesn’t deserve all the credit!

Since the 17th century, Franciscan friars in Mexico have included poinsettias in their Christmas celebrations. The star-shaped leaf pattern symbolizes the Star of Bethlehem and the red color represents the blood sacrifice through the crucifixion.

Family Matters: Poinsettias are part of the Euphorbia family, known for their distinctive white latex sap. This sap only irritates the skin of 40% of those with a latex allergy– typically only causing a minor reaction. And fresh plants have little to no pollen, so you can breathe easy (literally) around these beauties!

No Cause for Panic: While poinsettias are mildly toxic to people and pets, fear of them is unfounded. They taste so bitter that it’s extremely rare for anyone—or any furry friend—to eat enough to get sick. Just keep them out of paw’s reach, and you’re golden.

Cold Hardiness: These tropical plants are cold-hardy to USDA Hardiness Zone 9-11. Here they can grow as perennial woody shrubs outdoors year-round and get up to 10 feet tall!! But if you’re in a colder climate, you’ll need to bring them inside before frost hits.

Next time you admire those festive poinsettias, you’ll have a fun story to share—and maybe even impress (or annoy) your friends and family with the correct pronunciation!

Fun Experiment: After the holidays, try planting your poinsettia outside after the danger of the last frost. They-ll grow all season until it freezes again the following winter!