As we begin the new year, we are still enjoying a number of Poinsettia plants (Euphorbia pulcherrima) decorating the Campuses. These plants are native to Mexico, where they flower during the winter. They are named for Joel Roberts Poinsett, who was the first US Ambassador to Mexico in 1825. While visiting Mexico, he was intrigued by the poinsettia plants growing locally, and began growing them in his greenhouses in South Carolina. The Ambassador enjoyed sharing them with friends and family. The holiday tradition of sharing these plants continues today.
