The History of Poinsettias: From Mexican Folklore to Christmas Celebrations
Have you ever walked into a store during the holiday season and not seen a display of vibrant poinsettias in shades of red, pink, yellow, green, and white? These colorful plants are a staple of Christmas decor in homes and businesses across North America. But did you know that poinsettias are actually tropical shrubs native to Mexico?
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the fascinating history of poinsettias, from their medicinal uses in ancient Mexico to their association with Christmas celebrations in the United States.
What Is a Poinsettia?
Known scientifically as Euphorbia pulcherrima, poinsettias have a rich history in Mexican folklore. Referred to as cuetlaxochitl by the Aztec people and k’alul wits by the Maya, these vibrant plants were used both medicinally and ornamentally in Mexico for centuries.
Upon his visit to Mexico in 1828, ambassador and botanist Joel Roberts Poinsett sent cuttings of the plants back to South Carolina. Today, the plant bears his name, though the people of Mexico were already familiar with it long before his discovery.
It’s important to note that the colorful part of the poinsettia is not actually a flower but a leaflike growth known as a bract. Inside the bracts, you’ll find tiny yellow flowers. To care for your poinsettia correctly, refer to our detailed guide on the subject.
Mexican Folklore
In Mexican Christian folklore, poinsettias became associated with Christmas after Catholic missionaries arrived in the region in the 1500s. Unable to find holly for their traditional manger scenes, the missionaries used the red and green poinsettias instead.
Over time, believers in Mexico likened the flower-like bracts to the Star of Bethlehem colored red with the blood of Christ. As a result, poinsettias became a common sight in churches during the holiday season.
US Origins
In the United States, poinsettias were primarily grown as cut flowers before the introduction of the ‘St. Louis Red’ cultivar in 1924. Commercial success as a potted plant was achieved through the efforts of California growers and innovative marketing strategies.
Onto California
California growers played a crucial role in transforming poinsettias into popular indoor holiday decor. By grafting the shrubs onto naturally smaller specimens, growers like Paul Ecke developed more compact and lush varieties suitable for potting and shipping.
Ecke, a self-taught breeder, capitalized on the market demand for potted flowers and created a tougher, more colorful plant that could be grown and shipped in containers. By marketing his creation as the “Christmas Flower,” Ecke’s efforts propelled poinsettias into mass commercial success.
Today, poinsettias remain a popular choice for holiday decorations, with diverse varieties bred by the Ecke family that exhibit unique growth habits, bract shapes, and colors.
Celebrate the Season With Colorful Poinsettias
Poinsettias have evolved beyond their religious symbolism to become a cherished part of holiday celebrations for people of all backgrounds. Whether used for Hanukkah, Christmas, or secular festivities, these colorful plants bring joy and festive cheer to homes and businesses alike.
How do you incorporate poinsettias into your holiday decorations? Do you keep them around after the holidays? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
