THE Plants OF Christmas

This season, the best decor comes from Mother Nature!

- DARYL BEYERS

Ree has a thing for flowers in every form, so naturally, she’s a fan of holiday plants too. “I love big pots of poinsettias, fresh evergreen boughs, sprigs of fresh mistletoe…and the kisses that come with it!” she says. Stock up on some of these beauties for your own holiday decorating, and get some essential tips and tricks for making them thrive all season long.

Poinsettia

Poinsettias are native to Mexico, where legend has it that a little girl brought a small weedy shrub to church on Christmas Eve that blossomed into a beautiful red plant. Adding to the lore, the shape of the leaves-known as bracts-resembles the Star of Bethlehem. Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first US ambassador to Mexico, introduced the plant to the States, and it's named after him.

BUYING TIPS

• Look for poinsettias with stiff stems that support bright, buoyant leaves on top and healthy green leaves at the base.

• The tiny clusters in the center are the flowers. If they're open it means the plant is less fresh; look for one with tight buds.

• Place the pot in a bag for the ride home, and don't leave it in the cold; temperatures below 50° can cause damage.

ESSENTIAL CARE