The History of Poinsettias

This year has rushed by and the holiday's are just around the corner. We have received our first shipment of poinsettias. Poinsettias are a beautiful plant that is a popular and fun holiday gift to send to a friend or family member. But did you know the poinsettia plant has a very interesting history? The Aztecs originally used the dye of the plant to color textiles and cosmetics. The poinsettia plant, native to Central America was brought to South Carolina by Joel Poinset (hence the name poinsettia.) Poinset was the ambassador to Mexico under President Madison. Legend has it that the poinsettia became a symbol for the holidays when a young boy in Mexico approached a church for Christmas with a handful of leaves because he was too poor to afford flowers. Upon arriving at the church the weeds were changed into poinsettias. Poinsettias have a rich and colorful history and have come to symbolize winter and the holiday season for many different cultures and religions.