▷ Christmas star floral decorations

Decorations with the Christmas star flower: A complete guide for the end of year celebrations At the end of the year, infected with Christmas atmosphere and festive eventswe feel inspired to prepare a decoration – whether in our homes or at work – that reflects our desires for peace and renewal. We immediately thought of the Christmas tree, right? But this is not our only option: today we are going to talk about Poisenttia, or Christmas star flower, the ideal plant for Christmas arrangements which will give a touch of charm in your environment on this important date.

What is the Christmas star flower?

The poinsettia (Poinsettia) is a flower native to Mexico and has many popular names or “nicknames” depending on the region: parrot’s beak, Christmas flower, Christmas star, macaw tail, cardinal, Easter flower or bloodleaf. Its scientific name is The most beautiful Euphorbiawhich means “the most beautiful of euphorbiaceae”. Euphorbiácea is a botanical family of trees, shrubs, herbs and vines.
The name Poinsettia is said to be a tribute to the first United States ambassador to Mexico, Joel Roberts Poinsett, who sent seedlings of the plant home to the United States in the 19th century. In addition to being an ambassador, Poinsett was a physician and botanist and, enchanted by beauty of flowers Mexican, gave plants to friends and acquaintances and donated specimens to botanical gardens.

Subsequently, the tradition of adopting Poisenttia in Christmas decorations became widespread, especially because this plant only flowers once a year – and in the northern hemisphere this happens in winter, that is, around Christmas.
Despite its name, the Christmas star is actually a shrub. It is known for its bracts, that is to say its showy, long red leaves which really look like flower petals and attract pollinators. There are also yellow and pink varieties, but the red one is the most sought after because of its connection with Christmas.
The Poisenttia is considered the flower of the Holy Spirit precisely because of these bracts, similar to the Star of Bethlehem. The Star of Bethlehem is associated with the birth of Jesus and is used to decorate homes and churches.

Inspirations for decorating with Christmas star flowers

At Christmas, Poinsettia is generally used to decorate tables, balconies and gardens.
On long tables we recommend smaller vases with small fairy lights to make decoration easier.
On round tables, we recommend a central arrangement in a medium vase. In both cases, it is important to be careful when choosing planters, favoring white or gold planters in order to create a contrast with the bright red of the leaves.
If the plant is used as a temporary decoration only at Christmas, one option is to place it in a glass container covered with pine bark. Along with the dry branches and foliage, Poisenttia can also be used to compose the traditional Christmas wreath, which symbolizes the arrival of the birth of Jesus. With its circular shape which represents the cycle of life, the garland is normally hung on doors to invite The spirit of Christmas enter the house.

You can combine a Poisenttia Christmas arrangement with other original decorations, such as a garland of twinkling lights inside a glass bottle or transparent jar, creating a sophisticated effect.
Another recommendation for Poisenttia is to give it as a Christmas gift or as a souvenir during the holiday season. Gift this to a loved one Christmas flower means to wish good luck and prosperity.

Practical tips for caring for the Christmas star flower

Poisenttia can continue to be used as decoration even after Christmas. It is a plant that grows well in semi-shaded places, that is, it receives approximately 2 to 4 hours of direct sun per day. Ideally, the sun should be early in the morning and the environment should remain lit all day, but without direct sunlight.
The soil should be sandy and well drained. Watering should be done twice a week, early in the day. Water should flow easily through the pot, without pooling on the roots. Water only if the soil is dry. When the plant begins to have yellow parts, pruning should be done at the top of the branches.
It is important to take caution when handling of this plant, because it has a milky sap with toxic properties, which can cause pain and itching, inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes, eye irritation, swelling of the eyelids and tearing. It is essential to wear protective gloves during maintenance pruning.
In short, the Christmas star flower is a great option for Christmas to be filled with festive spirit, magic and warmth. This flower contributes to the typical and pleasant atmosphere of the end-of-year celebrations, bringing the festivities to life.