As soon as winter hits and holiday decorations hit the shelves, the Poinsettia is seen everywhere! The poinsettia has become a Christmas symbol for more reason that it’s bright red scarlet, star-shaped leaves that bring cheer wherever they are placed. The poinsettia brings in over $200 million in sales every Christmas season.

The History Of The Poinsettia

The Aztecs were one of the first to recognize the significance of the flower, they called the flowers “Cuetlaxochitl” which they used to dye clothing and cure fevers. The Aztecs also used them in their religious ceremonies because of the bright red coloring, as a symbol for “purity.”

People often have mistaken poinsettia’s red bracts as flower petals but they are actually leaves. The petals and buds of the flower are the smaller yellow parts in the center. The leaves are traditionally grown red but they can sometimes bloom in a white/pink coloring.

Pointsettia’s first arrived in the United States in the 19th century, by Dr. Joel Roberts Poinsett. The flower wasn’t named as the flower of Christmas right away – but by the 20th century during the Christmas season, they were seen everywhere!

What Does The Poinsettia have to do with Christmas?

One symbol of the poinsettia is that resembles the Star of Bethlehem, where the three wise men went to visit when Jesus was born. Another Mexican legend is where a little girl could only offer Jesus weeds on Christmas Eve. When the girl brought the weeds into the church, the weeds blossomed into these beautiful flowers.

If you would like to get your office or building in the spirit of Christmas by adding the Christmas symbol – the poinsettia, contact Evergreen Tropical Interiors. We are happy to bring in the beautiful flower to decorate for the holiday season. You can call us at 781-828-7808 or contact us on our website.