Poinsettia Care
Posted by Hannah Brand on Nov 4th 2025
Poinsettia Care
Can the holidays really start until poinsettias are here? This festive classic is synonymous with the season of giving, and we're here to give you the low-down on how to keep them looking their best!
At Tonkadale, poinsettias are available in rich reds, creamy whites, hot and soft pinks, and even variegated & marbled varieties! Their brilliant leaves are sure to bring a touch of elegance your table or festive display. With proper care, their color can last you long into the new year!
About
Euphorbia pulcherrima, more commonly known as Poinsettia, are native to Mexico & Central America and belong to the Euphorbiaceae plant family along with many cactus-like plants (crazy right?!). You may be familiar with poinsettias as they are a popular holiday flower, errr plant. What are commonly referred to as their flowers are actually bracts, or modified leaves! Their flowers are actually the little bead-like parts in the center of the leaves. The bracts are signaled to color up and give that colorful glow in response to shorter days & longer nights.
Poinsettias first arrive in the greenhouse as tiny rooted cuttings each year in July. We grow them in the greenhouse with keen attention to their needs so that they are ready just in time for the holiday season. Poinsettias put on vegetative growth until the Autumnal Equinox, then as the days get shorter, they begin to blush and change color.
Plant Care
Light
Poinsettias do best in a bright, indirect light, but do tolerate lower light levels through the holiday season. Direct sun can cause bleaching and burning on leaves.
Soil
Usually there is no need to repot, but if you do, make sure to use a rich, well-drained potting soil such as our Indoor Tonka Terra Mix!
Water
Water your Poinsettia when the soil surface feels dry. Do not allow the soil to completely dry out, as this will cause leaf drop and early spoilage. Be careful to not let them it in excess water, as this will cause root rot.
Fertilizer
Fertilizer is not needed when you take your poinsettia home from the greenhouse.
Hot Tips
Poinsettias don’t like to catch a cold or hot draft, so steer clear of drafty windows and heating vents!
It's important that we wrap your poinsettia in a paper sleeve for transport, as the branches are fragile & poinsettias are extremely sensitive to cold weather.
Myth busted: Poinsettias are not toxic to humans or pets unless consumed in large amounts. However, the latex sap in their stems can irritate skin, eyes, and tummies.
Shop Now!
Poinsettias are available at Tonkadale during the holiday season in several sizes.
Always approachable and happy to help!