Did you know the poinsettia has its own holiday? Today is National Poinsettia Day. The plant itself was was introduced into the U.S. from its native Mexico in the 1820's by Joel Robert Poinsett, a US Ambassador to Mexico. The true flower on the poinsettia is the actual yellow center. The red we associate with the flower is actually part of the leaf system on a poinsettia. The star-shaped leaf pattern is said to symbolize the Star of Bethlehem and the red color of the leaves represents the blood sacrifice through the Crucifixion of Jesus.
December 12th marks the anniversary of the death of Mr. Poinsett, therefore the House of Representatives picked this date when creating Poinsettia Day.
The above picture is in the foyer of my church. I just think it is gorgeous. Here are some poinsettias I have seen on Etsy that I just adore.
