Pike Nurseries' Melodie McDanal, stopped by Good Day Atlanta on Friday with information about poinsettias. Poinsettias were first discovered in Mexico in 1828 and have become the most popular, recognizable Christmas flower in the U.S. Poinsettia Myths 1. Contrary to popular belief, poinsettias are not poisonous 2. Poinsettias "flowers" are actually the bracts of the poinsettia 3. The true poinsettia flower is the cluster of yellow in the middle of the bracts
Colors 1. While the red poinsettia remains the most popular poinsettia color, there are plenty of other colors to choose from.
Uses Tables & Stairway 1. Place a poinsettia in a pot or buy a wrapped poinsettia 2. Place them just about anywhere inside that needs a pop of color or Christmas spirit
In house plants 1. If you have a small tree or tall houseplant in your home or office, spice it up by placing a few poinsettias around the base of the plant Table settings 1. Use a cute little 2-inch poinsettia at each table setting – if you're feeling generous it can be a little gift to your guests
Easy Poinsettia Care Tips 1. Do not leave the plant in standing water; always empty water from the saucer 2. Water when the soil becomes dry to the touch – too much or too little water can cause the leaves to drop 3. The ideal indoor temperature for poinsettias is 60-70 degrees 4. Do not expose poinsettias to drafts or let them touch cold window panes Keep away from direct heat sources like fireplaces or heating vents
