Florli plant library

Poinsettia: colourful bracts without cold stress

Euphorbia pulcherrima. It reacts badly to cold during transport, chilly draughts and water trapped inside decorative wrapping.

Poinsettia

Light

Very bright, indirect light; in winter it can sit near a window without touching cold glass.

Watering

Water after slight drying and remove excess immediately.

Soil

A light, free-draining mix.

More useful detail

Care over time

Rhythm through the year

Keep it warm and bright in winter. Recolouring requires controlled short days in autumn.

Growth and training

It can be pruned and repotted in spring; milky sap may irritate skin.

Plant

A simple care routine for Poinsettia

  1. 1

    Check light and moisture deeper in the pot.

  2. 2

    Protect it from cold on the journey home and check that foil or a cover pot cannot trap water.

  3. 3

    Track successive leaves and the pace of growth.

Observation

Changes worth checking

  • Sudden leaf drop after purchase
  • A soft stem base
  • Curling after drought
Important

Plant sap may irritate skin or eyes. Wear gloves when pruning and keep the plant away from children and pets.

Sources and further reading: RHS: flowering houseplants

From advice to your own plan

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Prepared by Florli. This is general guidance. Sources are listed with each guide, and every decision should reflect the species, location, weather and the plant’s current condition.