Poinsettias: Poisonous or Not?

The Poinsettia is plant that is indigenous to Mexico and Guatemala. It is known as "Noche Buena". The Aztecs used it for red dye and medication. The white sap that the plant excretes is known today as latex. People who are allergic to latex may suffer a reaction to this plant.

In 1828, Joel Roberts Poinsett, introduced the plant to the United States. Poinsett was the first U.S. Ambassador to Mexico and upon seeing these bright beautiful red plants along the roadside, decided to bring them to his greenhouse in South Carolina.

The Mexican folktale behind this beautiful flower involves a peasant girl who was going to see the baby Jesus and did not have anything to bring when an angel told her to pick a bouquet of weeds from along the roadside. When the little girl presented her small gift, among its ornate counterparts, legend has it that the weeds then transformed into a gorgeous arrangement of brilliant red flowers.

Some believe that the Poinsettias are toxic and deadly while it's true that if ingested one will suffer from diarrhea and intense stomach pain there is no inconclusive evidence of a direct link to death. They also can be toxic to cats if large amounts are ingested. In recent studies, the poinsettia proved to be non-poisonous. The National Capital Poison Center in Washington, DC has removed the plant from its poisonous plant list.

With over 100 varieties to choose from, here are some simple tips to follow when selecting your poinsettia.

• Make sure that the top leaves are fully colored

• Choose a plant whose dark green all the way to the soil

• Make sure there are no yellow leaves or coloring

• The plant should look bright and full

• Do not purchase plants that are just wrapped in paper or plastic

• Once home, if placed outdoors, make sure it is covered if the temp falls below 50 degrees

You can purchase your poinsettias online from www.1800flowers.com whose prices range from $39.99 and up. You may also try www.floraflora.com whose price is $45.99 with free delivery. Both of these places have their flowers and plants delivered from local florists so that they arrive to your door fresh and beautiful.

Whether you purchase your poinsettia from your local grocery or hardware store or online with the proper care your poinsettia will last way beyond the holiday season. May your holidays be bright and your new year prosperous!