Homegrown: Poinsettias - are they really poisonous?

Iowa State University, Linn County Extension Master Gardener, Jane Schildroth, clears up the poison myth about poinsettias and provides other info about this popular holiday plant:

Poinsettias are everywhere right now.  Homes and businesses are decorated in December with the traditional red ones as well as the white, pink, peach and even pale yellow-colored cultivars.  One in our office also sports glitter!  The poinsettia is one of the most popular potted flowers in theU.S., although it is native to southern Mexico. It has acquired the reputation of being toxic, which is actually not true.  Laboratory tests have shown that neither the leaves, stems, bracts, nor flowers are toxic to people or pets.

As pretty as they are, the showy petal-like leaves (bracts) are not the real flower of the plant.  The true flower is the yellowish button-like structure in the center of the bracts.  When selecting a healthy plant, be sure the flowers aren't shedding pollen or falling off because once this begins, the bracts won't last long, either.  Also, the bracts should not be broken or wilted and there should be lots of rich, dark green leaves, even at the base of the plant.  If it looks spindly, leave it in the store.

Wrap your poinsettia carefully before heading into the cold or the bracts will drop. Also, I have found that removing the foil wrap and setting the pot on a saucer works well for drainage.  Poinsettias don't want to be in a pool of water and the foil traps it.  It seems a shame to discard the lovely foil, but the plant will thank you.  They will also appreciate being near a sunny window away from drafts or heat sources.  Be sure to check each day to see if the soil is dry to the touch.  If so, water it thoroughly so that the water flows freely into the saucer.  Then, empty the saucer. With this sort of care, I have often enjoyed my poinsettia on Valentine's Day.

During an ambitious period of my life, I decided to try to keep my poinsettia for the next year.  Let's just say I know it's possible.  It can happen.  I just choose to think about details other than moving my plant in and out of a closet and following the protocol described at http://store.extension.iastate.edu/ItemDetail.aspx?ProductID=5722

In addition to poinsettias, you may begin to notice an occasional amaryllis blooming in someone's home.  These bulbs can also be maintained and enjoyed again next year – with a bit less angst than the poinsettia requires.  But if a truly long-lasting holiday plant is your desire, try a holiday cactus.  These beauties can last decades and will be happy in a room that gets little traffic and is rarely used in the evening.  Specific tips can be found at http://www.extension.iastate.edu/news/2007/jan/070101.htm.

No matter which “short day” plant you choose, you will have many days or weeks of enjoyment.  If you choose to give one as a gift, share these suggestions with the recipient.  You will increase their enjoyment of the plant and possibly relieve a bit of anxiety as well.