Poinsettias are NOT poisonous to Dogs and Cats
Most veterinary medicine websites state that poinsettias can be mildly toxic to dogs and cats. Washington State University says “Poinsettias have received bad publicity in the past. They do contain a milky sap that can irritate the mouth, but symptoms are usually mild if they develop.”
Few plants are as iconic as the poinsettia. The eye-catching blooms are a holiday tradition around the world. But the blooms aren’t a flower at all, they’re actually the leaves, or bracts, of the plant. Poinsettia are native to Central America, and in 1825, those stunning red leaves captured the attention of the United States ambassador to Mexico. A century later, the poinsettia was brought to market as a Christmas season plant in the U.S.
Today, red is still the most popular color, making up about 80% of all the poinsettias grown. Breeders around the world are developing new varieties that offer more color choices for holiday décor. Shoppers can choose from brilliant whites, deep burgundy hues, sparkling pinks, and a number of other specialty colors.
“Breeders are also enhancing features that make the plants more enjoyable for everyone,” says Diane Blazek, executive director of National Garden Bureau. “They’re developing varieties that bloom earlier, have longer-lasting blooms, and unique bract shapes.” National Garden Bureau talked with member poinsettia experts to get a few tips for choosing, displaying, and caring for this holiday plant.
How To Choose Your Poinsettia
Make sure the small yellow flowers (cyathia) in the center of the colored bracts are fresh.
Look for colored bracts that are healthy and full.
Make sure the lower leaves are green and there are no droopy leaves.
There are a few things to look for when choosing your poinsettia. “Make sure that the small yellow flowers in the center of the bracts (called cyathia – you can use that in your next cocktail party trivia!) are fresh and not turning brown,” says Karl Trellinger and Matt Blanchard, product managers with Syngenta Flowers. Poinsettias with withering or missing center flowers are past their prime.
Next, be sure both the leaves and the bracts look healthy. “The foliage can tell you a lot about the health of your poinsettia,” says Lisa Heredia, marketing and key accounts for Danziger North America. “Look at the lower foliage and make sure the leaves are green and healthy. Check to make sure the overall plant is well hydrated, you don’t want to see any droopy leaves.”
Don’t Overwater
Experts agree overwatering is the most common problem when it comes to poinsettia care. “In the typical home, poinsettia only needs water every 5-7 days,” says Rebecca Siemonsma, North American product manager for Dummen Orange. “Pick up the pot and if it feels light, then you want to water it.”
