Poinsettias are the Greatest Holiday Tradition from California
December 12 is National Poinsettia Day
Established by an Act of Congress. The date marks the death of Joel Roberts Poinsett, who introduced the native Mexican plant to the United States. Today, growers in California include Rocket Farms, one of the nation’s largest poinsettia growers. Pictured is the company’s Nipomo facility where poinsettias are grown and shipped to clients such as Costco.
Legend of the Poinsettia
A poor girl, Pepita, had no gift to present the Christ Child at Christmas Eve services. Her cousin told her that he believed even the most humble gift would be acceptable in His eyes, if given in love. Pepita knelt by the roadside and collected some common weeds. Read on…>
California Poinsettia Legend
Paul Ecke Sr. became known as Mr. Poinsettia for his innovative marketing promotions attributed with turning poinsettias into a holiday tradition in the U.S. He passed away at the age of 96 in Encinitas, where his lush, red poinsettias delighted passers-by who saw them in fields near the interstate between San Diego and Los Angeles.
California Poinsettias
California remains the top grower of poinsettias in the United States, accounting for approx. 34 percent of the value of the national sales among U.S. growers.
California Gold
Each year dozens of new poinsettias are created, taking on colorful, descriptive names such as sparkle, glitter and ice, to reflect their designs seen in the bracts of these plants. In the 2017-2018 year Gold Rush was introduced as a Top Pick by international grower, Dummen Orange. The plant’s name takes on special meaning for Californians familiar with our state’s history. Its bracts are yellow – to -golden in color.
