December 17, 2009
Poinsettias Brighten Homes
When my husband and I got married during the holiday season 19 years ago, white poinsettias were the wedding’s primary floral decorations. Back then, color was pretty much limited to red, pink and white. Just a few decades ago, there were only about five varieties. Now there are more than 100.
Choices Abound
You can find them in shades of red, pink and white as well as deep burgundy and even purple. There are marble varieties and selections that appear as if a second color was spattered on. In addition to choice in color, there are choices
in foliage and bracts. One variety, Winter Rose, has multiple layers of bracts giving it a more flower-like appearance. Another variety has more pointed leaves for a holly-like effect.
To learn more about selecting poinsettias and making them last longer in your home, check out this story from Dr. Raymond Kessler and the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. You can also see Dr. Kessler select poinsettias on this YouTube video.