POINSETTIA...A CHRISTMAS STAR SHINING for PEACE This Poinsettia is a Euphorbia pulcherrima. The plants association with Christmas began in 16th century Mexico, where legend tells of a young girl who was too poor to provide a gift for the celebration of Jesus birthday. The tale goes that the child was inspired by an angel to gather weeds from the roadside and place them in front of the church altar. Crimson blossoms sprouted from the weeds and became beautiful poinsettias. From the 17th century, Franciscan friars in Mexico included the plants in their Christmas celebrations. The star-shaped leaf pattern is said to symbolize the Star of Bethlehem, and the red colour represents the blood sacrifice through the crucifixion of Jesus... There is a common misconception that the poinsettia is highly toxic. This is not true; it is mildly irritating to the skin or stomach and may sometimes cause diarrhea and vomiting if eaten. As with all Euphorbias, they bruise easily and give off a white milk when broken, so those sensitive to latex may suffer an allergic reaction. I wish you all the very best, and thanx for all your kind words, time, comments, invites, faves. Very much appreciated. M, (*_*) Please do not use this image on websites, blogs or any other media without my explicit permission. © All rights reserved
Posted on: Sat, 13 Dec 2014 14:51:32 +0000