Bridgehampton - Legend has it that a young child brought a most humble bouquet of weeds she had gathered as an offering gift to a Nativity scene in a small village chapel in rural Mexico. The child felt sorry not to have a more valuable gift to present. She was reminded that a gift given in love would always be most welcome.

They bloom profusely during the Christmas season. (416-florist.com)

Along with the child's sincerest wishes and good faith, the bouquet of gathered weeds was placed at the Nativity scene. The townspeople noticed that the weeds began to transform. They began to change into vibrant blooms of red. It was considered a Christmas miracle. They named the bright star shaped flowers, Flores de Noche Buena (Flowers of the Holy Night).

In Mexico, once these flowers were recognized, it was apparent that they bloomed profusely during the Christmas season. Today, the flower is known as Poinsettia. That name was given in honor of America's first Ambassador to Mexico, Joel Roberts Poinsett. He was responsible for bringing these mysterious and delicately beautiful flowers to America around 1828.

In their native environment, sub-tropical flowering bushes can grow as tall as 12 feet high. However, in northern zones such as ours Poinsettia are mostly raised in hot houses and grown indoors.

Since the renaming of the star flowers in honor of their presenter, people around the world have associated Poinsettia plants/bushes with their winter solstice Holiday Season.

Varied Poinsettia
Poinsettia come in many different variations from the familiar red to vibrant bi-colors and pure white. I happen to love the white poinsettia.

I often use them decoratively for welcoming in the new year and often as a
New Year gift to friends and family. I wrap the pot itself with bright fresh green foil and combine the dazzling potted Poinsettia along with some fine wine and holiday sweets.

A Poinsettia display tree. (ur.umich.edu)

Why Not A Poinsettia Tree?
The first time I saw a Poinsettia display tree it was part of a seasonal display in the lobby of the Union Carbide building, then on Park Avenue in New York City. The Poinsettia tress were made of individual pots of the plants all tiered and stacked high in order to create the illusion of a giant holiday tree, I was impressed. Stunning.

For those who wish to have their Poinsettia continue to hold its bloom for the season. Here are some helpful hints:

 • Remember that Poinsettia are of a tropical origin. They require direct sunlight whenever possible.

 • The temperature is best to maintain between 65-75 degrees. Dropping the temperature during the evening will not hurt the plants, however cold drafts would definitely take their toll on the delicate structure of the Poinsettia leaves.

 • Water whenever the surface of the potting soil seems dry to the touch.

 • Humidity is essential as in tropical environments. So a spritz now and then can create the humid effect.

 • Maintaining the plant for re-bloom the following year is a tad demanding. Each month requires special attention. I have never been successful in the process, nor able to be consistently around for the plants requirements. (Winter season travel), therefore, I am suggesting have fun, nurture and care for today's vibrant and festive Poinsettia. Share the beauty however you creatively choose and most of all Have a Happy Loving and Gracious Holiday Season.