Poinsettia, Nochebuena, Christmas Star, Lobster Flower
Plantae > Tracheophytes > Angiosperms > Eudicots > Rosids > Malpighiales > Euphorbiaceae > Euphorbia > Euphorbia pulcherrima · Euphorbiaceae (Spurge family) · Simple, broadleaf, deciduous shrub
Species
Euphorbia pulcherrima
Leaf Type
Simple, broadleaf, deciduous shrub
Family
Euphorbiaceae (Spurge family)
Shape
Ovate to elliptic, sometimes shallowly lobed or dentate near the middle
Size
Typically 3 to 7 inches (7-18 cm) long and 1.5 to 4 inches wide; standard range for cultivated potted specimens
Margin
Entire to coarsely dentate or slightly lobed
Arrangement
Alternate, spiraling along woody green stems
Rarity
Very Common (extremely popular commercial holiday plant globally)
Color & Pattern
Vibrant medium to dark green foliage leaves with lighter yellow-green primary and secondary veins. Modified upper leaf-like structures (bracts) display bright crimson red coloration.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate, with light green, prominent main secondary veins branching towards margins
Texture & Surface
Slightly puberulent to smooth (glabrous) upper surface; matte finish, papery to thin texture with slightly raised venation underneath
Description
Euphorbia pulcherrima is a popular semi-evergreen shrub famous for its showy red foliage surrounding tiny yellow flowers called cyathia. The lower leaves are rich green with distinct veins, while top leaves change to bright red under short-day light cycles.
Key Features
Bright crimson red leaf-like terminal bracts, milky white latex sap when damaged, small cup-shaped yellow flower clusters (cyathia) at the stem tips, and pale green netted venation on ovate leaves
Habitat
Tropical dry forests in native regions; prefers well-drained soil, bright indirect light, moderate humidity, and protection from frost
Geographic Range
Native to Mexico and Central America; widely cultivated globally as a popular holiday houseplant
Condition Notes
Good overall health with vibrant green active leaves and bright red bracts. Some leaf drop and dried spent flower residues are visible around the base of the stems.
Interesting Facts
The red 'petals' are actually modified leaves called bracts. Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first U.S. Minister to Mexico, introduced the plant to North America in 1828. National Poinsettia Day is celebrated on December 12th.
Medicinal & Uses
Primarily used as a major ornamental plant during the winter holiday season. Historically used by Aztecs to make dye and treat fever.
Ecological Role
Provides nectar to tropical pollinators such as insects and hummingbirds in its native range; serves as cover in dry tropical scrub environments.
Similar Species
Euphorbia heterophylla (Wild Poinsettia), Euphorbia cyathophora (Fire on the Mountain), Coleus species
Foraging Tips
Not an edible plant; field identification involves looking for woody shrub stems, milky sap upon breaking petioles, and bright crimson terminal bracts in short-day conditions.
Toxicity Warning
Mildly Toxic. Contrary to urban legends, it is not deadly, but the milky sap contains diterpene esters that can cause mild stomach upset if ingested or skin irritation/dermatitis upon contact.