Did anyone notice that December 12 was National Poinsettia Day? The day was declared in honor of the death of Joel Roberts Poinsett on December 12, 1851 by an Act of Congress.  How can we overlook the man who introduced us to what is now the most popular flower during Christmas.

Joel Roberts Poinsett was born on March 2nd, 1779 in Charleston, South Carolina. As a young person he was well educated, fluent in many languages (French, Spanish, Italian, and German) and studied medicine, law, and military science. Poinsett also traveled extensively to Europe and Asia as a young man.

Poinsett served the U.S. in numerous capacities from diplomat to being a member of U.S. House of Representatives.  He was appointed as the first United States Ambassador to Mexico from 1825 – 1829 by President Madison. It was during this time that he visited the area of southern Mexico called Taxco del Alarcon and discovered what was later to become known as the poinsettia. (The Aztecs referred to the winter-blooming plant as cuetlaxochitl; its Latin name is Euphorbia pulcherrima or “the most beautiful Euphorbia.”)

Poinsett, also an avid amateur botanist, sent samples of the plant home to the States and by 1836 the plant was most widely known as the “poinsettia.”

Today poinsettias represent over 85 percent of the potted plant sales during the holiday season. While California is the top poinsettia producing state, poinsettias are commercially grown in all 50 states. If you can’t find a real poinsettia plant there are many retail outlets that sale faux poinsettias.

Joel has introduced us to more than just a colorful plant, but a traditional holiday decorative symbol. And over the holidays the floral industry generates over $220 million dollars during the holiday season.

I’m not sure what else can be done on National Poinsettia Day other than buy poinsettias. Is anyone even paying attention?

Of course there is an NCCA Bowl game in San Diego named the Poinsettia Bowl. But shouldn’t they at least play that on Dec 12?