Beyond Red: Why Poinsettias Still Reign as the Holiday Plant — and How to Keep Them Alive
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Asia Tabb
AIRED; December 10, 2025
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Poinsettias have become almost synonymous with December, and according to horticulturist Erica Jo Shaffer, it all comes down to their festive flair. “It’s because of that red,” Shaffer explained on The Spark, noting that poinsettias are an easy way for people to instantly add a pop of holiday color to a kitchen table or living space. While classic red remains the favorite, today’s poinsettias come in a surprising range of colors thanks to years of hybridizing, including burgundies, whites, and even splashed varieties like her personal favorite, Jingle Bells, a red poinsettia flecked with white.
Despite their seasonal popularity, poinsettias aren’t just a one-month plant. Shaffer says they can last well beyond the holidays if they’re cared for properly. As tropical plants, they need warmth, moderate watering, and good drainage to avoid root rot — especially when wrapped in decorative foil that can trap water. “Once they put them in foil, then you can easily drown them,” she said, recommending poking a hole in the foil and using a saucer underneath. Kept away from cold drafts and harsh conditions, poinsettias can stay healthy and vibrant long after the decorations come down, proving they’re more than just a pretty face for the holiday season.
