Our Plant in Focus for December is Euphorbia pulcherrima.
Commonly known as Poinsettias, they have brilliant red bracts and immediately evoke the atmosphere of Christmas. The Poinsettia was first discovered growing wild in southern Mexico and introduced as a houseplant by Joel Poinsett in 1830. They are often disposed of once they start to fade, but with a little care, you can keep them all year and the bracts will colour up again the following year.
Health Fact: Poinsettia are not the best at removing chemical vapors, but they still have some benefit.
Enviroment: Poinsettias need bright, filtered light, away from strong sun and draughts. They also need a minimum temperature of 13ºC.
Care: Water Poinsettias sparingly as overwatering can damage plants. As a rule of thumb, only water when the surface of the compost has begun to dry out. Mist plants regularly to extend flowering period.
