Fig Tree Lattice Star

Joel Roberts Poinsett (1779-1851) was the United States’ first Ambassador to Mexico. He fell in love with a shrub the Mexicans called cuitlaxochitl, which means “flower that grows in soil.” (Don’t all flowers grow in soil?) When he returned to his South Carolina home, he brought back several beautiful varieties which he cultivated and gave to friends. In his honor, congress declared December 12 – the day Poinsett died – Poinsettia Day. Poinsettias are widely available at this time of year in red, pink, white, purple, yellow, orange and salmon. There are some stunning variegated versions, too. If you buy a poinsettia, you should know that anyone with a latex allergy is likely also allergic to these shrubs. A mild reaction might result in itching, runny nose, watery eyes or a rash. A severe one can cause respiratory distress.