Poinsettias: Just the Facts, Ma'am.

Poinsettias are a beautiful addition to your home during the Christmas season. Originating from Mexico, poinsettias are also known as Flores de Noche Buena (Flowers of the Holy Night), representing the star of Bethlehem that was present on the eve of Christ's birth.

Picking out your poinsettia:

Check for broken stems and brown leaves before purchasing. Those are signs of a plant you don't want, as it is not the healthiest. No yellowing or too dark of green leaves either.

Caring for your poinsettia:

Poinsettias are very, very sensitive to temperature. Remember, it is a tropical plant. If you're going to purchase it in 45 degree weather or below, make sure you cover it from the store to the car and take it immediately home. Too much exposure to cold air will kill it.

Don't let the soil dry out completely. Always keep the soil just moist. (If in doubt, simply put your finger down into the soil and feel. If it's dry, give it water, if the soil is damp, leave it be. Simple!) Keep the soil evenly moist.

Are poinsettias poisonous?

No. This is a misconception that has been scaring parents since 1919 when a young toddler in Hawaii died of poisoning and it was mis-diagnosed as being from a poinsettia plant.

Numerous studies have been performed since, and all that has been found is that eating the plant might give a human an upset stomach and possible vomiting and diarrhea. Further, the sap can cause some people to itch. Your pets might get sick from eating the plants as well, but poinsettias are not going to kill anyone.