Christmas

Holiday Plant History - Why Do We Have Christmas Plants

Holiday Plant History - Why Do We Have Christmas Plants
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  • Michael Williams

Native to Mexico, poinsettias were once cultivated by the Aztecs for use as a fever medicine and to make a red/purple dye. After the Spanish conquest, Christianity became the religion of the region and poinsettias became Christian symbols used in rituals and nativity processions.

  1. What plant is associated with Christmas?
  2. Why is the poinsettia associated with Christmas?
  3. What flower is used for Navidad?
  4. What do you do with poinsettias after Christmas?
  5. What is a popular Christmas plant?
  6. Is a plant a good Christmas gift?
  7. Can a poinsettia live all year?
  8. Do poinsettias like sun or shade?
  9. What does it mean when someone gives you a poinsettia?
  10. What is the most popular Christmas plant?
  11. What are some traditional Christmas flowers?
  12. Why are they called Christmas roses?

What plant is associated with Christmas?

The Symbolic Poinsettia

The poinsettia is one of the most iconic houseplants to give and receive as a gift during the holidays. Sub-tropical plants native to Mexico, poinsettias arrived in America during the 1800s by Dr.

Why is the poinsettia associated with Christmas?

Crimson blossoms sprouted from the weeds and became poinsettias. From the 17th century, Franciscan friars in Mexico included the plants in their Christmas celebrations. The star-shaped leaf pattern is said to symbolize the Star of Bethlehem, and the red color represents the blood sacrifice of Jesus's crucifixion.

What flower is used for Navidad?

Centuries later, Mexico's early Christians adopted the poinsettia as their prized Christmas Eve flower. The Mexican poinsettia, known as the Christmas Flower in North America, is used in most Christmas decorations, owing to its bright red color and its blooming season coinciding with the Christmas holiday season.

What do you do with poinsettias after Christmas?

Toss the poinsettia when you grow tired of it or it becomes unattractive. For those home gardeners who enjoy a challenge, it is possible to get the poinsettia to bloom again next season. Cut the stems back to within 4 to 6 inches of the soil in March. The poinsettia may also be repotted at this time.

What is a popular Christmas plant?

Poinsettia – Perhaps the most recognizable flower for Christmas is the poinsettia. Originally sold with bright red and green leaves (the “flowers” are actually leaves on the plant), poinsettias today are sold in a wide variety of colors and patterns. ... Amaryllis – Amaryllis is another popular holiday plant.

Is a plant a good Christmas gift?

Plants are a classic gift and appropriate for many occasions. Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, graduation or even in sympathy, plants are an appreciated gift.

Can a poinsettia live all year?

Poinsettias can be kept year after year, and they will bloom each year if you give them proper care. When the leaves begin to yellow or when the plant is no longer desired as an ornamental, gradually withhold water. ... The bracts (colorful leaves just below the true flowers) will be the last to go.

Do poinsettias like sun or shade?

Poinsettias need a minimum of six hours of indirect sunlight each day. Protect the plants from freezing temperatures, especially when transporting them. Place them in a light-filled room away from drafts. They do best in rooms between 55 and 65 F at night and 65 to 70 F during the day.

What does it mean when someone gives you a poinsettia?

While considered by the ancient Aztecs to be symbols of purity, in today's language of flowers, red, white or pink poinsettias, the December birth flower, symbolize good cheer and success and are said to bring wishes of mirth and celebration.

What is the most popular Christmas plant?

The most popular Christmas plant is the poinsettia. They're frequently just called the red Christmas flowers because that's how socially accepted they are as the premier Christmas flower. Poinsettias are plants with very large oversized blossoming flowers. They're bright red and have large green leaves below.

What are some traditional Christmas flowers?

Top 6 Traditional Christmas Flowers & Plants

Why are they called Christmas roses?

Folklore and early medicinal uses

Helleborus niger is commonly called the Christmas rose, due to an old legend that it sprouted in the snow from the tears of a young girl who had no gift to give the Christ child in Bethlehem.

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