poinsettia

noun

poin·​set·​tia pȯin-ˈse-tē-ə 

nonstandard pȯint-

nonstandard

-ˈse-tə 

: any of several spurges (genus Euphorbia) with flower clusters subtended by showy involucral bracts

especially : a showy Mexican and Central American plant (E. pulcherrima) with tapering usually scarlet bracts that suggest petals and surround small yellow flowers

Illustration of poinsettia

Examples of poinsettia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Our poinsettias left from Christmas in containers are doing great. — Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 22 Aug. 2026

Because mums don’t reliably return the next year, Ling also treats them as annuals and uses them for seasonal decor, much like poinsettias at Christmas. — Nadia Hassani, The Spruce, 16 Aug. 2026

During holidays, be extra cautious with seasonal plants like poinsettias, lilies and tulips that are commonly gifted or displayed. — Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 July 2026

Also on the watch list for both yards and homes are lily of the valley, lilies, cyclamen, lantana, hosta, peony, geranium, chrysanthemum, begonia, gladiola, jade plant, snake plant, kalanchoe, hyacinth, bird of paradise and poinsettia. — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 14 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Joel R. Poinsett †1851 American diplomat

First Known Use

1836, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

poinsettia

noun

poin·​set·​tia pȯin-ˈset-ē-ə  -ˈset-ə 

: a showy Mexican and Central American plant with large scarlet bracts that grow like petals about its small yellow flowers