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Plant Detail

Poinsettia

Scientific name	Euphorbia pulcherrima
Common name	Poinsettia
Type	Perennials
Variety	Perennial
USDA Zone hardiness	8a - 11+
Exposure	Full sun
Height	6 to 10'
Spread	6 to 10'

Poinsettia can be found almost everywhere during the holiday season, second only to the Christmas tree as the most popular holiday plant. Large dark green oval leaves that are serrated on the sides and pointed at the tips. Flowers are borne at the stem tips in winter. The actual flowers are small and yellow, the colorful leaf like structures which surround the small flowers are bracts. Poinsettia come in red, white, pink and violet. When grown in containers allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering, over watering will result in leaf drop. Prefers full sun, too much shade will result in leggy growth. Keep holiday plants away from cold windows and drafty doorways, cold winter air can cause rapid leaf drop. Light frost will kill this tropical tender perennial from Central and South America.