Poinsettia colors add to holiday decorations

Every holiday season, few plants capture the spirit of Christmas quite like the poinsettia.

With their festive colors and cheerful presence, poinsettias have long been a favorite for decorating homes, churches and businesses. But did you know that poinsettias come in far more colors than the classic red?

For the past four years, the Mississippi State University South Mississippi Branch Experiment Station in Poplarville has been growing more than 50 different poinsettia varieties as part of their ongoing research project. Their colorful collection showcases just how diverse and beautiful this traditional holiday plant can be.

I attend their annual poinsettia open house at the beginning of December to see some of the unusual varieties. It’s always a treat to walk among the rows of brilliant colors and unique forms. Every year, I find a new variety that becomes one of my favorites.

The timeless red varieties remain the most popular choice, evoking warmth and tradition. But the research trials reveal an impressive range of new colors that add fresh excitement to holiday décor.

At the open house, you’ll find pristine whites that create a clean, elegant look; soft pinks that bring a touch of romance; and bright yellows and oranges that add a warm, contemporary twist to seasonal arrangements.

Some of the most eye-catching ones are the variegated and speckled types.

These feature splashes and streaks of contrasting colors, such as red and white, pink and cream, or marbled shades that look hand painted. Each plant is truly unique, offering creative options for both traditional and modern decorating styles.

The poinsettia’s colorful display comes from its bracts, which are modified leaves surrounding the plants’ small, yellow flowers. As the amount of daylight decreases, the bracts change from green to the colors we cherish during the holidays.

Handle the bracts gently, as they are prone to bruising or tearing.

To keep your poinsettias healthy, place them in bright, indirect sunlight for 6 to 8 hours daily. Avoid direct sunlight that can scorch their delicate bracts. Maintain a consistent indoor temperature of 65 to 75 degrees, keeping the plants away from cold drafts, heaters or vents to minimize stress.

Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, and ensure the pot has proper drainage to prevent root rot. Always remove any excess water from decorative wraps or saucers.

Since they are tropical plants, poinsettias thrive in moderate humidity. You can create a suitable environment by using a pebble tray or humidifier in dry indoor conditions.

For those who wish to keep poinsettias beyond the holiday season, trim the plant back in early spring. Place the plant in a new pot if necessary, and move it outdoors to partial shade once temperatures remain consistently above 60 degrees.

Whether you prefer classic red or like to experiment with bold new colors, poinsettias grown at the MSU South Mississippi Branch Experiment Station prove there is a poinsettia for every taste and style.

This year, consider adding a few different varieties to your holiday displays and let their festive hues brighten your home all season long.