← Flower Dictionary

Poinsettia

ポインセチア ・ Euphorbia pulcherrima

The traditional meaning of Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima, Euphorbiaceae) is “Blessing, Good Luck & Holy Night.” It is the birth flower for December.

Flower meaning

Blessing, Good Luck & Holy Night

The red “petals” are bracts — colored leaves, not flowers. Native to Mexico, it is named after Joel Poinsett, the first US minister to Mexico.

Botanical facts

Botanical name
Euphorbia pulcherrima
Family
Euphorbiaceae
Typical color
Red
Season
Winter

The birth flower for December

Poinsettia is the flower associated with December. The monthly page shows that month’s flower, color and stone together.

🌼 See December’s birth flower →

About flower meanings

There is no official standard for flower meanings — they differ by country, era and source. We list only widely shared readings, and note in the text where sources disagree. Botanical names and families follow standard plant taxonomy. About our data

🎂 What’s your birthday?

Pick your date to see your full birthday profile — zodiac, life path and more.