Would you like to add a little extra holiday cheer to your garden by adding some poinsettia plants? You can welcome poinsettias of several varieties into your home.
Gardening expert Danielle Sherwood examines the most well-liked poinsettia cultivars for indoor and outdoor use this season in this article.
1. Pink Champagne
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Pink Champagne’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
“Pink Champagne,” a unique species of pink poinsettia, features coral pink bracts that are fashioned like stars and have a richer rose hue. Its slow-opening cyathia will give your home a longer-lasting poinsettia! For plants that will blossom for the longest, get those with cyathia in the bud stage.
“Pink Champagne” looks gorgeous with silver, gold, and white holiday décor. Think of serving it with sparkling glasses of real pink champagne or punch for a New Year’s Eve celebration. This bicolor poinsettia will add a distinctive touch to your Christmas décor.
You might want to have pink champagne around for more than just the holidays because it’s so pretty and useful. Thankfully, poinsettias are a year-round houseplant!
2. Sky Star
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Sky Star’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
“Sky Star” conveys the joy of Christmas. This unusual cultivar gives the impression of freshly fallen snow on the foliage with its large crimson bracts dusted with white. Visitors will squint to check if it’s genuine!
With its erect habit and deep green leaves, “Sky Star” is a delightful choice for your holiday décor. Arrange a few of them in groups around your house to create a winter wonderland covered in snow.
Plants that are grouped also contribute to a more humid microclimate, which retains essential moisture in the soil and air.
The reason “Sky Star” got its name was that the farmers thought the tiny white dots looked like stars in the night sky. This unusual poinsettia will enchant you, whether it conjures images of twinkling stars or a gentle snowfall!
3. Alaska
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Alaska’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
Are the trees in your yard flocked? Are you a fan of winter container décor adorned with snowy white lights? With their striking white colour, “Alaska” poinsettias will be the ideal finishing touch for your chilly décor.
Big, holly-shaped, icy white bracts, dubbed “Alaska,” established the industry standard. It grows quickly and with tenacity. An excellent choice for novices, this hardy poinsettia can tolerate a little mistreatment.
‘Alaska’ is an elegant and sturdy poinsettia that will look excellent well into the New Year, conjuring images of ski slopes, snowflakes, and marshmallows!
4. Enduring Marble
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Enduring Marble’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
This kind features rich, creamy bracts that are tinged with pink. This small version is typically a striking option.
“Enduring Marble” is a cultivar that is more resilient to low light levels than most others, making it an excellent choice for enlarging tiny, dim areas.
To welcome visitors, place “Enduring Marble” in your foyer. It will spark a conversation! This series is designed to look good for a long time. You can enjoy ‘Enduring Marble’ for months to come if you keep the soil damp but not soggy.
5. Freedom Peppermint
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Freedom Peppermint’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
Enjoying a little peppermint during the holidays is something that anybody can appreciate. With hints of cream and raspberry, this sweet cultivar varies in colour from pale pink to apricot.
It may seem tempting to munch on Freedom Peppermint, but hold back! Cut poinsettia stems exude an unpleasant white sap; nonetheless, poinsettia toxicity has been significantly overstated. Pets that have a propensity to eat plants should be kept away from them.
Boasting big, colourful bracts, “Freedom Peppermint” is a member of the Freedom series. The colours are adaptable enough to complement your post-Christmas decor while still creating a lovely holiday display.
6. Biancaneve White
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Biancaneve White’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
The biggest, purest white bracts on the market may be found in “Biancaneve White”! It looks to be completely covered with ivory blossoms, which makes it the perfect addition to a theme of icy winter.
Due to its preference for chilly temperatures, “biancaneve” is difficult to find in southern regions. You still have lovely options if you adore white poinsettias and reside in a place with warm winters. Think about the “Alaska” or creamy white “Polar Bear” that was stated earlier.
An early-season cultivar, “Biancaneve White,” reaches peak colour in mid-November and maintains it through Christmas. For those who prefer to start their holiday decorating earlier than others, this variation is great.
7. Lemon Glow
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Lemon Glow’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
“Lemon Glow,” which has the hue of candlelight, will brighten your holidays. When it comes to decorating in the interim between autumn and winter, this early-season cultivar is a great option. Imagine sparkling Christmas lights and rich autumn foliage.
Adding “Lemon Glow” somewhere adds a bit of sunlight. Its beautiful yellow bracts are pointy and reminiscent of a shining Christmas star.
If you want this happy poinsettia to last as long as possible, don’t overfeed it with extra nutrients. When in bloom, poinsettia plants don’t require fertilizer to maintain their colour. Rather, concentrate on giving it the intense light it requires to remain colourful.
8. Silverstar Red
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Silverstar Red’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
Silverstar Red’s striking red bracts aren’t what make it stand out from most other cultivars. The rich alabaster and variegated green foliage of this beauty draw the eye in.
In floral arrangements, “Silverstar Red” also looks stunning! Poinsettias create lovely bouquets, even though they’re not frequently used as cut flowers. Use a lighter to swiftly seal off the sap at the end of a healthy stem to extend its life.
Add a quarter teaspoon of bleach and a spoonful of sugar to the water. If the sky becomes gloomy, change the water, and your arrangement should endure for two weeks!
“Silverstar Red” emerged victorious from the 2009 BYU horticultural trials. This cultivar is very good for health and vigour, with beautiful variegated leaves and lovely pointed red bracts.
9. Winter Rose
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Winter Rose’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
Present “Winter Rose” to your visitors as a unique and delightful surprise. Round, softly curling bracts reminiscent of a red rose’s flowers characterize this variety!
The fact that this bract structure typically remains on the plant for a longer period before withering and losing leaves is another benefit. You can enjoy “Winter Rose” well into spring if you take good care of it.
In addition to the original garnet-coloured knockout, the “Winter Rose” line features other exquisite versions, such as the odd cream and pink “Winter Rose Marble” and the faint blush “Winter Rose White.” All varieties often come in 6-inch pots and mature to a modest stature.
10. Christmas Surprise
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Christmas Surprise’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
Do you adore a fresh splash of colour? Select the stunning “Christmas Surprise” with cayenne. This red-orange variety isn’t afraid to capture attention with its striking flowers, even from a distance!
The orange tones in “Christmas Surprise” should be emphasized by pairing it with deep blue holiday decorations. This extraordinarily luminescent type provides a flash of light during gloomy winter days.
Although “Christmas Surprise” is a hardy cultivator, it is subject to some pests, just like any other poinsettia. To contain any infestations, use yellow sticky traps and get rid of damaged plants very quickly.
11. Autumn Leaves
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Autumn Leaves’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
It would be impossible to discuss orange poinsettias without bringing up the exquisite “Autumn Leaves.” This cultivar, with its radiant peach, yellow, and pink hues, will bring coziness to your house throughout the cold months.
“Autumn Leaves” reaches its peak of colour in November, but with proper maintenance, it can endure the winter holidays. It looks just as good as decorating a Christmas or Thanksgiving table.
This poinsettia is susceptible to chilly temperatures, despite the appearance that it generates its radiant warmth. In chilly locations, make sure to cover it to protect it on the way from the nursery or store to your home.
12. Tapestry
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Tapestry’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
“Tapestry” features unique greenery. The vermilion bracts of this poinsettia are nicely contrasted with the delicate yellow and green variegation of its foliage.
Select Tapestry if you wish to avoid having to conduct a lot of maintenance. Common poinsettia diseases like bract-edge burn and early leaf loss are not likely to affect this variety.
It has a long-lasting real flower, or cyathia, in the centre of the bracts. You can enjoy the unique colour of this poinsettia for months to come because of its longer shelf life!
13. Prestige Maroon
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Prestige Maroon’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
A more opulent version of the traditional Christmas poinsettia. A beautiful, luxurious environment is ideal for “Prestige Maroon.”
Dense bract development and very saturated burgundy colour are characteristics of “Prestige Maroon.” Dark-wooded homes with golden accents look stunning with this poinsettia.
Removing any curled or discoloured leaves from “Prestige Maroon” should be done gently. To shield your bare hands from the sticky white sap of poinsettias, use gloves whenever you trim them.
14. Valentine
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Valentine’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
Valentine, an additional romantic rose-shaped alternative, features intriguingly lighter veins and darkly curled leaves. Like many single-stemmed roses given on Valentine’s Day, each colourful bract is tall and upright.
The particularly huge cyathia on Valentine’s Day stands out in the middle of the fluffy rose-red bracts, making it another one of its unique characteristics.
Compared to most poinsettias, “Valentine” can withstand lower light levels. It has grown fairly nicely in just three hours in bright, indirect light! If your windows only let in light from the north, try this lovely carmine-coloured poinsettia.
15. Jingle Bell Rock
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Jingle Bell Rock’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
Get into the spirit of the holidays with “Jingle Bell Rock”! Distinguished from other flecked variations, this cultivar features greater cream blazes on peppermint candy-red bracts.
Purchase this late-season poinsettia in time for Christmas and let it provide cheery colour into the depths of winter. It should last for some time, but make sure you’re watering your plants on time if you notice an early leaf drop. Falling, wilted leaves are frequently an indication of overwatering.
The song “Jingle Bell Rock” gives red and white holiday décor just the perfect touch of whimsicalness. Arrange it in solitude before a wintry window to create a lovely vista.
16. Candy Wintergreen
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Candy Wintergreen’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
A little sugar just doesn’t make the holidays the same! Between the vibrant green of “Green Envy” and the zesty yellow of “Lemon Glow,” “Candy Wintergreen” is the ideal midpoint.
The delicate, tea-green leaves of this poinsettia from the “Candy” variety can appear bold or delicate, depending on their arrangement. Because of its perfect v-shaped growth habit, gardeners prefer it.
Candy Wintergreen resembles glittering lights in the night sky with its star-shaped leaves and forest green foliage. Try it with hues of milk and fairy lights for a dreamy appearance, or with strong blues for a striking contrast.
17. Premium Ice Crystal
Botanical Name: ‘Premium Ice Crystal’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
The bracts of “Premium Ice Crystal” have hot pink edges and apricot centers, making them unique. The leaves of this poinsettia extend their colour fairly far down the stem, creating a stunning ball of colour.
Arrange “Premium Ice Crystal” in a cluster with classic red, white, and pink poinsettias to finish the ensemble. It can also stand alone as the focal point of your striking Christmas décor.
The ideal temperature range for “Premium Ice Crystal” is 65–75 °F. It can also grow outdoors at your front door if the temperature in your area stays above 55°F!
18. Christmas Beauty Cinnamon
Botanical Name: ‘Christmas Beauty Cinnamon’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
One peachy-pink colour that stands out is “Christmas Beauty Cinnamon.” Precious for its fading resistance, it is a part of the best-selling “Christmas Beauty” line.
Shining well beyond the holidays, this blushing poinsettia makes the ideal addition to any neutral home decor. For a gorgeous New Year’s Eve centerpiece, encircle it with flameless candles and champagne coupes.
Although this type of poinsettia is sensitive to excessively damp weather, most poinsettias enjoy dampness. Provide plenty of space for ventilation, and think about using a fan if you reside in an extremely humid area or if condensation is forming on your windows.
19. Christmas Feelings Merlot
Botanical Name: ‘Christmas Feelings Merlot’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
“Christmas Merlot” is calling your name if you enjoy unwinding with a good glass of red wine after a busy day of celebration! This type offers you carefree, effortless grace while remaining full and rounded.
True to its name, “Christmas Merlot” boasts lovely bracts of deep merlot crimson. A much moodier version of traditional Christmas red, it is a part of the best-selling “Christmas Feelings” line.
This variety’s rich hues look stunning when combined with cream and lime green. Try it with “Green Envy” for a stunning combo!
20. Christmas Beauty Princess
Botanical Name: ‘Christmas Beauty Princess’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
“Christmas Beauty Princess” is a stunner if you’re looking for something. This poinsettia lives up to its regal moniker with its tall habit and brilliant red bracts that have a hint of deep pink in the center.
The foliage of the ‘Christmas Beauty’ series is exceptionally heat-tolerant and dark green. Consider maintaining “Christmas Beauty” as a houseplant for the entire year with a colour this stunning! To understand how to care for this poinsettia and promote rebloom the following year, read these instructions.
“Christmas Beauty” has a classic flare that goes well with your traditional holiday décor, but it’s distinctive enough to draw tonnes of praise. If you’re struggling to make up your mind, “Christmas Beauty” is a well-liked option.
21. Kayla Red
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Kayla Red’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
How do you tell which of the numerous festive red poinsettia cultivars you’ve chosen is the best? There’s no denying “Kayla Red”—it was the winner of “Best Red Variety” in a trial involving 175 red-blooming poinsettias!
“Kayla Red” has lovely lime cyathia that looks like tiny diamonds and is a magnificent ruby red. It is the ideal red poinsettia for any home because of its lovely v-shaped form and festive holly-shaped foliage.
“Kayla Red” was developed to withstand heat and have a lengthy shelf life. If regular, deep watering is done, it will last for months. You can feel good about picking up this variety as well. FairTradeTM certified, Beekenkamp is the producer!
22. Country Quilt
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Country Quilt’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
“Country Quilt” creates a striking effect with flecked leaves in lime green, cream, and crimson, emulating the speckled look of “Superba New Glitter.”
This playful variety is a hit for traditional or modern home design since it brings together all the classic festive colours. Originating at the world’s premier poinsettia producer, Paul Ecke Ranch, this accounts for more than half of global sales.
Even if it seems lovely, take off the metallic sleeve that came with “Country Quilt” and most other poinsettias. This will prevent over-moisture retention, which could cause root rot, and allow the roots of your poinsettia to breathe. Placing the plastic nursery pot in a larger, ornamental container can help you maintain its excellent appearance.
23. J’adore Soft Pink
Botanical Name: ‘J’adore Soft Pink’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
If you’re a fan of pink but think “Robyn” is a little too vivid, choose the stylish “J’adore Soft Pink.” With delicate, pale pink layers of pointy bracts, this poinsettia is the epitome of beauty.
“J’adore Soft Pink” has a classic star form, yet it stands out thanks to its sophisticated colour. For a pastel paradise look, combine it with white and silver hues. Better yet, think about combining it with “Robyn Pink” and a more intense red to create a gorgeous ombré arrangement.
Although this poinsettia is available in full size, it is also frequently offered in adorable little sizes, with some as little as 8 inches tall. Present one or arrange it on a side table for the epitome of pretty-in-pink perfection!
24. Robyn Pink
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Robyn Pink’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
If you adore mid-century modern design, try adding some 1950s fun with ‘Robyn Pink,’ which is coloured like bubble gum. It looks fantastic next to a flocked tree decked out in colourful, wacky decorations.
‘Robyn Pink’ is a true pink that is bold. It is a small plant with exquisite form and a large number of smooth, richly coloured bracts. This cultivar has complete, even branching, so it looks perfectly pruned without any work on your part!
For a fun twist on the traditional holiday reds and whites, try “Robyn Pink.” Your holidays will have a dynamic touch because of the unexpected colour.
25. Superba New Glitter
Botanical Name: ‘Superba New Glitter’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
The ruby-red bracts on this whimsical novelty poinsettia are speckled with white. ‘Superba New Glitter’ is one of the showiest types available, with long, speckled, pointed bracts that contrast with dark green leaves.
‘Superba New Glitter’ is a plant that provides the ideal festive red, white, and green when coloured in time for the holidays! This intriguing range is impressive enough to serve as décor on its own.
To achieve the best indirect light and long-lasting colour, place it close to a window that faces either southwest or east. Ensure that its leaves stay away from the chilly windows!
26. Christmas Mouse
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Christmas Mouse’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
It seems impossible that this adorable variety is real! Small, rounded bracts that resemble tiny mouse ears adorn “Christmas Mouse,” an adorable plant that was inspired by the same-titled poem in German.
“Christmas Mouse” is a great choice if you enjoy traditional holiday red but prefer a unique spin. The lush green foliage contrasts well with the dense, vivid crimson bracts of this award-winning poinsettia. “Christmas Mouse” is a poinsettia that has a bloom form that has never been seen before.
All poinsettias, including “Christmas Mouse,” like a little humid atmosphere. There is a 55%–75% ideal humidity range. To keep this endearing variety healthy and happy, think about getting a humidifier if your winter air is too dry!
27. Plum Pudding
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Plum Pudding’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
Plum pudding, the only true purple poinsettia, has a stunning pale aubergine colour. This unique variation is sure to capture your heart if you enjoy non-traditional Christmas colours.
‘Plum Pudding’ features brilliant green cyathia and relatively short, pointy bracts. Its gorgeous cherry colour is reminiscent of the classic Christmas treat. For the ideal Christmas vignette, place it next to an image or figurine of the Sugar Plum Fairy from The Nutcracker.
Compared to most neat, v-shaped poinsettias, ‘Plum Pudding’ has an open growth habit and free flowering habit that gives it a more rustic appearance. Pinch back the initial growth of this amazing poinsettia by one or two inches when reproducing it. This will stimulate further growth of bracts in this gorgeous violet hue.
28. Orange Glow
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Orange Glow’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
The vibrant bracts of “Orange Glow,” which evoke memories of a winter bonfire, provide cheer on chilly days! The purest orange hue on the market is displayed in the flowers of this poinsettia. Because it blooms right before Thanksgiving, it’s a stunning and unexpected option for fall décor.
Large, conventional star-shaped bracts characterize the “Orange Glow.” Its leaves will blend in perfectly with the genuine fireplace’s embers to create an incredibly warm atmosphere. But be sure to position your poinsettia far from the fireplace. They can scorch or wilt when exposed to extremes in temperature because they are susceptible to both.
To give your Christmas décor a festive mini-flame effect, pick up some “Orange Glow.” Maybe it will give you the idea to build your winter bonfire!
29. Holly Berry
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Holly Berry’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
This red species of holly is perfect if you like the way winter sprigs of holly look! With their holly leaf-like form, the crimson bracts of ‘Holly Berry’ add an extra touch of seasonal charm.
A notable feature of “Holly Berry” poinsettias is their extensive branching, which results in an abundance of eye-catching clusters of vibrant bracts.
The smaller type called “Holly Berry,” is perfect for being the focal point of the Christmas dinner table. To maximize the length of the bloom period, water deeply anytime the top layer of soil has dried out.
30. Grande Italia
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Grande Italia’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
Let’s begin with a stunning, classic red! Among the red poinsettia family, “Grande Italia” is a show-stopper with extremely huge, silky bracts in a real Christmas crimson.
At 20″, this type is taller than the typical poinsettia and will look stunning in a huge arrangement. “Grande Italia” is a strong winner because it can withstand more heat than other types.
‘Grande Italia’ should be kept out of the cold and exposed to 6 to 8 hours of indirect, bright light. If given proper care, its festive foliage can endure up to six weeks!
31. Cortez Burgundy
Botanical Name: Poinsettia euphorbia pulcherrima ‘Cortez Burgundy’
Plant Type: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect
“Cortez Burgundy” is a stunningly deep burgundy red wine. It looks softer than brilliant red, star-shaped poinsettias because of its softly oak leaf-shaped bracts.
The star of the rich wine-coloured poinsettias is this cultivar. It’s a sophisticated take on classic crimson that looks stunning in spaces with Victorian or rustic décor.
The leaves of “Cortez Burgundy” get even deeper as the bloom comes to a conclusion, sporting tones of rich merlot with black edges. Because this poinsettia is quite sensitive to high temperatures, keep it away from heat sources to extend the beauty of its colour!
Conclusion
Once limited to conventional Christmas hues, poinsettias now come in a variety of selections sure to please even the most discerning modern palate! Add a poinsettia for a quick seasonal charm if your decorations are missing something.
Poinsettias can add beauty to your house year-round, but they are at their most vibrant during the chilly winter days. Spread the happiness by getting another for a friend or loved one after you’ve selected your favourite!