Also known as Christmas Flower · Christmas Weed · Christmas-Star
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) is a popular ornamental shrub, known for its vibrant winter bracts. Native to Mexico, it needs bright indirect light and consistent moi
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright indirect light; requires short days for bract coloration.
80% intensity
Moderate, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
60% intensity
Well-draining, rich potting mix.
50% intensity
Warm, consistent temperatures (18-24 °C day, 15-18 °C night).
70% intensity
House Plant, Indoor, Outdoor
50% intensity
Fertilize during active growth; avoid during bloom.
50% intensity
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Ensure excess water drains completely from the pot to prevent root rot, as poinsettias are sensitive to overwatering.
Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water. Reduce watering slightly after the blooming period, especially if the plant enters a semi-dormant phase, but never allow the soil to dry out completely.
Prune poinsettias in spring, after the colorful bracts have faded, to encourage bushier growth and maintain a compact shape.
Cut stems back to about 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) from the soil line, ensuring at least two nodes remain on each stem. Pinch back new growth tips throughout summer to promote branching and a denser plant.
Wear gloves to avoid contact with the milky sap.
Poinsettias are typically propagated by stem cuttings in late spring or early summer. Take 10-15 cm (4-6 inch) cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems, ensuring each has several leaves.
Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a moist, well-draining potting mix. Provide high humidity and warmth. Cuttings usually root within 3-4 weeks, ready for transplanting once established.
Repot poinsettias annually in spring, after pruning and before new growth fully emerges, if the plant has outgrown its current container.
Choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one to avoid overwatering issues. Use a fresh, well-draining potting mix. Gently remove the plant, loosen any circling roots, and replant at the same depth.
Water thoroughly after repotting to settle the soil.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima)
9 known issues from plant disease data
Botrytis blight on Poinsettia causes water-soaked spots and fuzzy gray mold on bracts, leaves, and stems, leading to blight and collapse.
Pythium root rot in Poinsettia causes roots to turn brown and mushy, leaving plants wilted, stunted, and weak even in moist soil.
Phytophthora crown rot in Poinsettia darkens the crown and lower stem, causing sudden wilting, yellowing, and rapid plant collapse.
Rhizoctonia stem rot on Poinsettia causes brown stem lesions at the soil line, followed by wilting, collapse, and plant death.
Powdery mildew on Poinsettia leaves a white powdery coating on leaves and bracts, reducing plant quality and causing distortion.
Poinsettia scab causes rough, corky, raised spots on Poinsettia leaves and bracts, leaving plants scarred and less attractive.
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Euphorbia |
| Species | Euphorbia pulcherrima |
Similar in genus Euphorbia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
