In addition to the Christmas tree itself, there is another plant that has become a symbol of the holiday season: the humble poinsettia. Red, white, pink, yellow or some marbled combination of colors, this potted flower brings a festive touch to Christmas displays in homes, businesses and parade floats. And they’re grown right here in North Carolina.
Poinsettias are one of the largest potted flower crops in the United States. North Carolina is second in poinsettia pot sales in the country, according to the 2023 USDA NASS Floriculture Report. At $10.6 million, the state ranks second only to California in Poinsettia pot sales.
The plant is primarily grown indoors outside of its native climate. Growing outdoors year-round in Mexico and Central America, this flower is an unlikely but welcome addition to the often-chilly North Carolina Christmas season. Poinsettias are commonly found in North American homes around the holiday season – their vibrant red bracts and dark green leaves making a stunning addition to a Christmas display.
Greenhouses across the state grow the festive plant by the thousands. Metrolina Greenhouses in Huntersville ships millions of poinsettias across the east coast each holiday season. Homewood Nursery & Garden Center in Raleigh grows tens of thousands of poinsettias each year. Large and small operations across the state make North Carolina the poinsettia powerhouse it is today, with poinsettias contributing greatly to the state’s agricultural economy.
Dispelling some myths
Contrary to popular belief, poinsettias are not poisonous! According to the NC State Extension, ingesting parts of the plant would likely not be enjoyable and could cause stomach aches or vomiting, but poison control centers have documented that the plant is not poisonous.
And, no, they’re not poisonous to your pets either. But, if you have a pet that particularly enjoys eating plants, maybe avoid them just to be on the safe side.
Poinsettias do excrete latex, so those sensitive to latex or with a latex allergy should be cautious. Latex is sticky and messy, so if you get some on your skin, you’ll want to wash it right off anyway.
Tips for keeping poinsettias alive until – and after – Christmas
Poinsettias are easy plants to care for, and they should last through the holiday season. These tips can help you keep your poinsettias alive and beautiful even into the spring:
- Keep your poinsettia in bright light to help them keep their color. If the leaves start to turn yellow, move them to a spot where they can get more sunlight.
- Ensure your flower is displayed away from drafty areas or heat vents.
- Keep your poinsettia moist but be careful not to overwater it. Before watering, feel the soil. If it’s dry and your plant is light when picked up, it probably needs water.
- Keep poinsettias warm. Generally, homes are kept around 60 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter, which should be comfortable for your poinsettia. Temperatures below 55 degrees Fahrenheit could be damaging to the tropical flower.
For more information on choosing a poinsettia or growing your own, visit www.horticulture.ces.ncsu.edu/poinsettias/.