Pointers for poinsettias

One plant which sums up the festive season is the poinsettia, or to give it it’s correct name, the Euphorbia pulcherrima. As well as the traditional bright-red varieties, new types in deep red (almost maroon), cream, pink and white are also available.

Poinsettias have a reputation as being shortlived and difficult to maintain, but there are ways to help them look good for longer.

Kenneth Freeman, head of innovation at interior landscaping company Ambius, offers his tips on looking after colourful plants.

Poinsettias must be unwrapped from their sleeves as soon as you get them indoors.

Keep them warm. They originate from Mexico and central America, and don’t like sitting in cold vehicles, cold buildings or being watered with cold water. Choose a warm, draught-free location.

Red poinsettias often look poor under fluorescent lighting. Incandescent or halogen lighting makes them look their best.

White or pink poinsettias will look better for longer display periods (over three weeks). Red ones tend to fade in colour if in low light for over three weeks.

While they can consume a lot of water, poinsettias should never be allowed to stand in water.

If your poinsettia has wilted, try soaking the root ball with warm water as this can revive it. Revival should occur within one hour, so don’t chuck out your plants until you have tried this.