'Flower of the Holy Night' - Page 3
© Meg Greene Malvasi
The tale of Lucinda and the miracle of the poinsettia is a touching Christmas legend. If not for an inquisitive American botanist, however, the people of the United States might well have missed out on the beauty of the poinsettia altogether. Dr. Joel Poinsett, who was the American ambassador to Mexico between 1825 and 1830, was struck by the unusual plants he found growing wild in the jungles and along the roadways. Captivated by their loveliness, Dr. Poinsett took several cuttings with him when he returned to his home in South Carolina. Through his efforts, the poinsettia has gained popularity around the world and has long been essential to the American Christmas tradition. We call these plants "poinsettia" to commemorate and honor Dr. Poinsett, who cherished them, cultivated them, and shared them with the world.
Want To Know More? Visit these sights to learn more about poinsettias: The History of the Poinsettia, or the Texas Producers Poinsettia Guide.
Check Out At The Library: Tomie dePaola's wonderful retelling The Poinsettia Legend (Grades 2+), and The Gift of the Poinsettia + El Regalo De La Flor De Nochebuena by Pat Mora, Charles Ramirez Berg, and Daniel Lechon (Grades K-3).
Something To Think About: Can you think of other flowers or plants that have come to symbolize something special?
Next Week: Come meet "Old Benfana" and learn the Christmas traditions of Italy.
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