The poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) is indigenous to Mexico and Central America. The poinsettia was first described by Europeans in 1834. It is particularly well known for its red and green foliage and is widely used in Christmas floral displays. It derives its common English name from Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first United States minister to Mexico, who is credited with introducing the plant to the US in the 1820s.
Wild poinsettia populations are highly fragmented, as their habitat is experiencing largely unregulated deforestation. They were cultivated by the Aztecs for use in traditional medicine.
Postcards
1954 – Transcolor Corporation (12000 Series)
1959 – Lofthouse Agency Ltd (P24700 Series – Type A)
1965 – Calypso Distributors Ltd (P24700 Series – Type B)
