Poinsettia care
Euphorbia pulcherrima needs bright light with no direct sun. Check the soil before you water.
This is general care advice. Check the label of your plant. Keep toxic plants away from pets and children.
Add to my plantsCare at a glance
- Botanical name
- Euphorbia pulcherrima
- Other names
- Christmas star
- Light
- Bright light, no direct sun. Put it in bright, indirect light. Keep it away from cold windows and drafts.
- Soil check
- Every 4 to 8 days in the growing season. The app learns the real time.
- Humidity
- Medium humidity
- Feeding
- Feed once a month in spring and summer. Do not feed in winter.
How to check the soil of Poinsettia
How does the soil feel 2 to 3 cm below the top?
Push a finger 2 to 3 cm into the soil. Feel if it is dry, damp or wet.
- Dry: no soil sticks to your finger. Water the plant.
- Damp: a little soil sticks to your finger. It feels cool. Do not water yet.
- Wet: soil sticks to your finger and feels soggy, or you see water. Do not water. Check the drainage.
Do not water on a fixed day. Test the soil first. Read the soil check guide.
Soil mix
Use a light potting soil with some perlite. The mix must drain well.
Tips for Poinsettia
- Remove the foil sleeve or make holes in it. Standing water causes root rot.
- Leaf drop often comes from cold air below 10 C, drafts or dry soil.
- For color again, give 14 hours of full dark each night for 8 to 10 weeks in autumn.
- The sap can irritate skin and mouth. Wash your hands after you prune.
Pet safety
Toxic to cats and dogs. Keep it away from pets and children.
ASPCA: Poinsettia