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Poinsettias Named for U.S. Diplomat Joel Poinsett
The Christmas plant poinsettia traces its name and fame to Joel Roberts Poinsett, 19th century U.S. ambassador to Mexico and South Carolina congressman. He brought cuttings to his home, improved the plant, and Philadelphia botanist Robert Buist later named it Euphorbia poinsettia. The varieties now range from tall stalks to small dwarfs in red, white, and pink hues.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Joel Roberts Poinsett
Poinsett
U. S
Mexico
South Carolina
Robert Buist
Philadelphia
United States
Congress
van Buren
Madison
Monroe
Jackson