The poinsettia was described as a new species in 1834 by German scientist Johann Friedrich Klotzsch. … See more

Euphorbia pulcherrima is a shrub or small tree, typically reaching a height of 0.6–4 metres (2–13 ft). The plant bears dark green dentate leaves that measure 6–16 centimetres (2.4–6.3 in) in length. The colored … See more

Poinsettias are popularly, though incorrectly, said to be toxic to humans and other animals. This misconception was spread by a 1919 urban legend of a two-year-old child dying after consuming a poinsettia l… See more

Pulcherrol and pulcherryl acetate are among the components of its latex. Triterpenes are found in aerial parts of the plant, including its latex and leaves. One such triterpenoid skeleton is being investigate… See more

The poinsettia occurs in North and Central America, from Mexico to southern Guatemala. Its range is about 2,000 km (1,200 mi) long, encompassing mid-elevation tropical dry forests. Most wild population… See more

The tropical dry forests where wild poinsettias grow experience largely unregulated deforestation, resulting in habitat loss. Its natural habitat is thus highly fragmented See more