Why will I love it?
This is the most festive of houseplants: for me, just the sight of Euphorbia pulcherrima’s scarlet bracts conjure up the scent of cinnamon candles, mulled wine and cosy fireside nights.
Light or shade?
Bright indirect sunshine.
Where should I put it?
On a side table near a west- or south-facing window.
How do I keep it alive?
Keep in a cool position at about 15C, and dust the leaves and bracts to keep it looking its best. Water sparingly when you notice that the surface of the compost has started to dry out. Misting your poinsettia will increase the humidity, which will help those bright red bracts look happy and healthy for longer.
Did you know …
You don’t need to throw away your plants after the holiday season, and if you are up for the challenge, you can attempt to get your plant to reflower. Here’s how: after Christmas, feed with a high-potash fertiliser, then in the spring, prune the poinsettia down to about 10cm of stem and keep it in a cool, bright place. Then, from November, place it in a warm, dark room for 12 hours or until the flowers open. Note: the plant is toxic to pets and humans if ingested.
