Poinsettias are a decorative winter staple thanks to their large vibrant foliage- AKA leaves.  That's right, those big, colorful, floral-like clusters are actually specialized leaves called ‘bracts' that change from green to vibrant, festive colors thanks to the shorter winter days. Poinsettia flowers are actually quite small and can be found at the center of the bract as a cluster of tiny green or yellow bead-like structures (cyathia).

Cinnamon Poinsettia's leaves (bracts) connecting around the cluster of flowers (cyathia).

Each “bead” is a flower with both male and female components.  The male flowers emerge first and once mature (topped with pollen-filled strands), then the female blossoms along its side- looking like yellow lips and oozing nectar to help trap any falling pollen and entice pollinators. The bracts change color to attract pollinators- facilitating the fertilization process.

Closeup of a Cinnamon Poinsettia's cluster of flowers (cyathia).

Once pollination is complete the bracts fall away; leaving the poinsettia looking barren and many folks believing they have “dispatched” yet another one.  Each pollinated flower has the potential to produce a seed pod, which forms under the flower.  So, this year have a closer look at your Poinsettias and take comfort knowing that at the end of it all, your Poinsettia will embark on a strict leaf-detox diet to shed its holiday weight… Regardless of the care and praise you provide.