Poinsettias are native to Mexico. They were named after America's first ambassador to Mexico, Joel Poinsett. He brought the plants to America in 1828. The Mexicans in the eighteenth century thought the plants were symbolic of the Star of Bethlehem. Thus the Poinsettia became associated with the Christmas season. I wish you, all my AW friends, Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Warm regards from Israel. Lili