I am a tropical perennial shrub, but I am most famous as a seasonal houseplant.

My most spectacular feature is not my flowers, but my large, colorful bracts (modified leaves) that surround my small, yellow, central flowers (cyathia).

My true leaves are deep green, oval, and sometimes toothed.

With special care, I can be re-bloomed the following year, though it is a challenging process.

I am native to Mexico and Central America.

I prefer consistently moist but not soggy soil.

Water me thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, and always let excess water drain away. I am very susceptible to root rot.

Avoid letting me sit in standing water.

Wilted leaves are a sign I need water, but it's best not to let me get to that point.

I thrive in bright, indirect light.

At least 6 hours of indirect sunlight daily will keep my bracts vibrant.

Protect me from harsh, direct sun, which can fade or scorch my beautiful bracts.

Avoid drafty windows or heat vents.

I enjoy comfortable room temperatures between 18°C and 24°C.

I am extremely sensitive to cold drafts and temperatures below 13°C, which can cause me to drop my leaves.

Keep me away from cold windows and doors.

I am almost always grown in a pot as a temporary holiday plant.

If you wish to keep me, prune me back in spring and repot in fresh, well-draining potting mix.

To re-bloom, I need a strict regimen of long, uninterrupted nights (over 12 hours of complete darkness) for about 8-10 weeks in the fall.

I am a beautiful tabletop or shelf decoration during the holiday season.

Do not fertilize me while I am in bloom.

If you are keeping me past the season, feed me monthly with a balanced, all-purpose houseplant fertilizer starting in spring and stopping in early fall.

Scientific Name: Euphorbia pulcherrima

Common Names: Christmas Star, Lobster Plant, Noche Buena

Plant Family: Euphorbiaceae

Plant Type: Tropical perennial shrub, typically grown as a seasonal houseplant

MILDLY TOXIC to cats and dogs. My sap can cause mild to moderate mouth and stomach irritation, leading to drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea if ingested. The risk is often overstated, but it's best to keep me out of reach of curious pets.

While I am grown primarily for my stunning beauty, I do contribute to cleaner air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.

The ultimate symbol of holiday cheer and decoration.

Available in a wide range of colors and forms.

With dedicated care, can be a rewarding long-term houseplant.

Leaf Drop - The most common issue, caused by cold drafts, sudden temperature changes, or improper watering.

Wilting - Usually due to underwatering or root rot from overwatering.

Pests - Can be susceptible to whiteflies, mealybugs, and spider mites.

Fading Bract Color - Caused by insufficient light.

Failure to Re-bloom - Due to not receiving the required long periods of darkness.

As a holiday decoration, I am typically enjoyed for a few weeks to months. However, with meticulous year-round care, including the critical dark period treatment, I can live and re-bloom for several years. I am a plant that embodies the fleeting beauty of the season, but for the dedicated gardener, I can become a cherished, recurring tradition.