When you receive a poinsettia as a gift or buy one this season it is important to keep a few things in mind if you want to maintain it in optimal health.

1. Poinsettias love sunshine and 'high' light: They are native to Taxco, Mexico so you know that, as a desert plant, they need lots of sun.

2. Dry between watering: Let the surface of the soil dry between water applications. It should be dry about 2 centimetres deep. Most problems with poinsettias occur as a result of over watering.

3. Fertilize: It is not necessary to fertilize your poinsettia but there is no harm in it either. Most Canadian growers include a slow release fertilizer in the soil, which can last up to 3 months or even longer.

4. The flower? Is not what you think it is: The red/white/yellow 'flower' are actually coloured leaves called 'bracts.' They are designed by Mother Nature to attract pollinators. The actual flowers start out as pea-sized yellow buds, clustered in the centre of the plant. They 'flower' when the pea breaks open.

Come late May you can plant your poinsettia in the garden in a sunny position, in well-drained soil. It may not flower there but will provide a great looking foliage plant all summer long.

Enjoy it and have fun with it! When you are done with it, toss it on the compost.

And no, poinsettias are not poisonous.