Differences Between Poinsettia Varieties
Poinsettias are no longer limited to their classic red shade. Thanks to modern breeding and decorative techniques, this holiday plant now exists in a wide range of colors, each with its own particularities and level of stability.
This guide explains the differences between red, pink, white, speckled and blue poinsettias, clarifies how blue poinsettias are created and offers tips to preserve or obtain specific colors.
1. Red Poinsettias
The most stable and natural color
Red poinsettias are the original variety found in Mexico. Their color comes from anthocyanins produced when nights become longer than days.
They are the strongest, most vigorous and most stable type. Their color holds well, and they tolerate bright light better than lighter varieties.
2. Pink Poinsettias
A soft and luminous color
Pink varieties have reduced red pigmentation, resulting in shades from very pale pink to vivid rose tones.
Pink poinsettias are more sensitive to light levels. Low light can turn them greener, while excessive brightness can wash out the color.
3. White Poinsettias
An elegant but delicate variety
White poinsettias come from hybrids engineered to minimize pigmentation, producing cream or ivory bracts.
They are more sensitive to heat and low light, which can cause yellowing or greening. Stable, moderate light helps maintain their brightness.
4. Speckled Poinsettias
A natural and unique pattern
Often called “jingle bells”, these varieties feature white or cream speckles on red or pink bracts. The variegation is genetic, not decorative.
Each plant develops a different pattern, making these varieties highly decorative. Light and temperature can slightly influence speckle intensity.
5. Variegated Poinsettias
A rare variety with irregular patterns
Variegated poinsettias display partially depigmented bracts, creating white, cream or pale green areas. This pattern is genetic and naturally expresses itself in certain ornamental varieties selected for their originality.
Each plant shows a unique pattern, with more or less pronounced variegation depending on the variety and environmental conditions. Variegated poinsettias are more sensitive to direct light, which may intensify pale areas or cause leaf burn. Bright indirect light helps maintain clean, well-defined variegation.
5. Blue Poinsettias
A decorative color created by dyeing
Blue poinsettias are not natural. They are white poinsettias sprayed with a floral dye designed for plants.
The dye colors only the existing bracts. New growth will always be white. The blue color gradually fades over time.
How to keep it blue
To prolong the color, avoid direct sunlight, maintain stable temperatures and prevent overwatering. The blue shade cannot be preserved permanently.
Can you make a poinsettia blue yourself
Yes. Using a water-based floral dye, you can recolor the bracts. The result is more uniform when starting with a white poinsettia. New growth will always remain white.
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