Easter flower (Euphorbia Pulcherrima) It is a tropical bush of the Tártagos family originally from Mexico and neighboring countries. The «flowers» of the Easter flower are actually bracts of bright colors that surround the true floral, small and yellow clusters, not very striking.

Other names: Christmas star, good night, Easter flower, Easter, Easter flower, Mexican flame blade, Andes Corona

History and folklore of Easter flower

Easter flower, also known as Christmas star, has a fascinating history and folklore. His scientific name was given by the botanist Carl Ludwig Willdenow in 1833, while the nickname of «Christmas star» was put on Johann Friedrich Klotzsch in 1834. In Türkiye, it is called Atatürk flower for the favorite flower of General Mustafa Kemal.

Legend has it that the Aztecs believed that the plant came from the blood of a goddess with a broken heart. Its red flowers were used as dye and sap as medicine. Another Mexican legend speaks of a poor girl who, guided by angels, takes garden branches to the church, which miraculously transforms into Easter flowers on the altar, hence her name «Flores de la Venbuena».

Call in honor of Dr. Joel Roberts Poinsett, US ambassador to Mexico, the plant was introduced in the US in 1812. On December 12, Poinsettia’s Day is celebrated, in honor of its introduction. Introduced in Europe in the early nineteenth century, it gained popularity as a Christmas plant, especially thanks to the German marketing efforts Paul Ecke in the twentieth century. Today is a basic festive element in homes around the world.

Folkloric -description appearance Christmas Flor of Easter is closely associated with Christmas in many cultures, especially in North America. Legend has it that a young Mexican, unable to buy a gift for Jesus’ birthday, picked up grabbing from the edge of the road and placed them on the altar of the church. Miraculously, weeds became beautiful red flowers, a symbol of the Christmas miracle. Mexican Legend In Mexico, Easter flower is known as «Good Night Flowers», referring to its association with Christmas Eve. According to Mexican folklore, Easter flowers flourished for the first time at the feet of a poor girl named Pepita, whom an angel inspired to give herbs to the child Jesus. Símbolo of celebration The Easter flower is considered a symbol of celebration, joy and renewal during the Christmas holidays. Its vibrant red and green foliage illuminates homes, churches and public spaces, remembering the spirit of Christmas and the hope of new beginnings in the coming year.Table 1: Folklore and cultural significance

Easter flower cultivation

Shortly after your poinsettia arrives home, its leaves will begin to fall. Don’t worry. Cut the plant in half and place it in a protected and shaded place, and water only when the earth dries.

In summer, transplantation the poinsettia and place it in a bright place, away from direct sunlight, and increase the irrigation slightly, but without letting it flock.

You should start to mislead again. To favor the return of your bright bracts, place your poinsettia in complete darkness for at least 12 hours per night and make sure you receive a lot of indirect sunlight during the day.

Do not allow your poinsettia to cool. Keep it at temperatures above 45 degrees Fahrenheit. You can place it outdoors in a place with filtered sunlight if temperatures are favorable.

Spiritual uses of Easter flower

Easter flower is an appropriate decoration for winter solstice celebrations. Choose white, pink or red poinsettias depending on the chromatic energy that you want to contribute to your ceremony.

Your symbolism

According to a popular story, a very poor child was sad for not having (according to who told him) a gift to present the Child Jesus in the representation of birth in the Church.

He was inspired to collect herbs from the edge of the road and deposited them before the manger, where they grew and became bright Easter flower plants. The Easter flower was introduced in the United States by Ambassador Joel Roberts Poinsett in 1825.

The color and its meaning

The intense red of the bracts is of a typically Christmas color, and the shape of the leaves reminds the star of Bethlehem. But it’s not just about this. In fact, according to the Aztecs, this plant symbolizes purity, a concept highly appreciated by Christianity.

At Christmas, we should all try to be better, demonstrate the purity of our feelings, love others with our whole being, with humility, respect and wisdom.

And precisely why the Christmas star is considered the perfect plant for parties, capable of symbolizing all this.

Spiritual aspects description Provide that poinsettias has protective energies that move away negative influences and bring blessings to the home. It is believed that placing poinsettias near entries or windows creates a barrier against evil spirits and attracts positive energy to space. They are used in rituals and ceremonies to promote peace, reconciliation and unity between family, friends and loved ones. Spiritual Flower Easter Flower Symbolizes spiritual growth, transformation and renewal. Its vibrant red color represents the vital force and vitality of the spirit, while its green foliage symbolizes growth, abundance and life cycle. Working with Easter flower in meditation or rituals can help people connect with their inner strength, their resistance and spiritual potential.Table 2: spiritual and symbolic uses

Easter flower

The latex of the Easter flower has been used to induce vomiting. Cataplasm of the leaves has been used for pain and discomfort. Both methods are potentially very uncomfortable.

Other uses of Easter flower

The latex has been used as depilatory in Mexico and from the bracts a red dye can be obtained.

Is Easter flower toxic?

Easter flower is slightly toxic and can cause diarrhea and vomiting if ingested, but is not considered dangerous.

It can also cause cutaneous irritation and temporary blindness if you get into contact with your eyes. The Easter flower sap contains latex and can cause reactions in allergic people.

Conclusion

Easter flower is a beautiful symbol of rebirth, hope and purity. Use it to decorate your home, as a gift for someone special or to celebrate the winter solstice and its blessings.