Poinsettia

Poinsettia is a tropical shrub or small tree grown widely as a colorful holiday plant. Its tiny yellow flowers sit among showy bracts that may be red, pink, white, or other combinations, above dark green leaves. ## Growing Conditions In warm climates, grow it outdoors in a bright site with some protection from hot afternoon sun; it is hardy outdoors in USDA Zones 9–11. In colder areas, treat it as a seasonal container plant. Keep it away from cold drafts and heat vents, and water when the soil surface feels dry without leaving the pot in standing water. ## Seasonal Interest The bracts color in response to long, uninterrupted nights and are commonly enjoyed through winter. After the display, the plant can remain green and continue growing; summer pinching encourages branching. Native plants can become much larger outdoors than the typical indoor holiday specimen. ## Maintenance Use a well-drained potting mix and remove excess water from the saucer after watering. Protect the brittle stems from breakage. The milky sap may irritate people with latex allergies, so use care when pruning. [NC State Extension’s plant profile](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/euphorbia-pulcherrima/common-name/poinsettia/) documents its size, zones, bract colors, seasonal care, and sap.