A christmas without Christmas Eve It’s not Christmas, this 100% Mexican flower It has become a symbol of the Christmas holidays in our country and in other places around the world, but its origin dates back to pre-hispanic times.
According to an investigation carried out by the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM)In pre-hispanic times, the poinsettia flower was known as a “flower that withers” (Cuetlaxóchitl in Nahuatl); It was used for ceremonial purposes to decorate the altars of the Goddess Tonantzin, as a trophy it was given to warriors upon returning from a battle and even medicinally because they considered that the white liquid that flows from its stem increased the production of breast milk.
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Types of poinsettia flower
The scientific name of the poinsettia is The most lovely Euphorbia and is cultivated throughout the Pacific coast, from Sinaloa to Guatemalaclassified between wild and cultivated.
Wild poinsettias grow in forests and jungles near rivers and shady ravines; while the cultivated ones, more used for sale and as ornamental plants, grow in greenhouses and have some characteristics that differentiate them, also depending on the remoteness of the place where they are endemic.
there are variations between the wild poinsettias and cultivated ones; The former are very thin and form a single set of leaves around the inflorescences; while the greenhouse ones are larger in volume and much more attractive.
Its color is another of the variants that this flower can present and ranges from deep red and pink to yellow, blanca
How did poinsettia begin to be used at Christmas?
The history of the relationship of the poinsettia flower with Christmas dates back to the time of the conquest, when the franciscan monks who lived in the city of Taxco They began to integrate it into their activities. evangelism.
The Franciscan monks placed poinsettia flowers as decorations in the births in his desire to include pre-Hispanic symbolism in those of the religion imposed on the New Spain. This practice spread to other regions until it became a symbolism of the season, but especially of Christmas.
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How did Christmas Eve leave Mexico to become a global symbol?
Joel Robert Poinsseta politician, military man, naturalist and ambassador of the United States in mexico, collected a diversity of animals and plants, among them the poinsettia flower from Taxco, which he introduced to world floriculture by sending the specimen to Bartram Botanical Gardenin Philadelphia.
In 1829 it was presented at a festival of plants and fruits in Bertram and from that moment on it began to be cultivated on the other side of the border and used to decorate the festivities.
He arrived in Europe some time later,when the curator Robert Buist he cultivated it in the Royal Botanic Gardens,Edinburgh.
The use of Christmas Eve as a symbol of Christmas has spread practically throughout the world, and a day has even been instituted to celebrate its significant existence. Every December 8th the National Christmas Eve Day and in Taxco where it originates, a monumental flower adorned with thousands of it is placed, also known as the Flower of Peace.
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What are the care requirements for poinsettias during the holiday season?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Dr. Laura Martinez, Poinsettia Expert
Time.news editor: Welcome, Dr. Martinez! It’s a pleasure to have you with us today. As we dive into the holiday season, the poinsettia flower has become iconic. Can you tell us a bit about its ancient importance in Mexico?
Dr. laura Martinez: Thank you for having me! Indeed, the poinsettia, or Cuetlaxóchitl in Nahuatl, has a rich history that goes back to pre-Hispanic times. It was more than just a decorative plant; it was used in ceremonies to honor the Goddess Tonantzin, symbolizing the connection to the divine. Additionally, it had practical applications, such as being given to warriors as a trophy and even as a medicinal plant believed to enhance breast milk production.
Time.news Editor: That’s engaging! So, it sounds like the poinsettia was woven into the cultural and spiritual fabric of indigenous society. How did it transition from this historical context to becoming a symbol of Christmas today?
dr. Laura Martinez: The conversion of the poinsettia into a Christmas symbol is quite fascinating. When the Spanish colonizers arrived, they adopted many indigenous practices and flora, including the poinsettia. its vibrant colors fit well within the celebratory nature of the Christmas season. Over time, it became associated with the holiday festivities, gradually cementing its place in homes around the world as a festive decoration.
Time.news Editor: It’s amazing how plants can represent cultural shifts! Speaking of its popularity, could you elaborate on the different types of poinsettia? I understand there are both wild and cultivated varieties.
Dr. Laura Martinez: Absolutely! The scientific name for the poinsettia is Euphorbia pulcherrima, which means “the most lovely Euphorbia.” Wild poinsettias typically grow in natural habitats, like forests and jungle areas, featuring thinner leaves.In contrast, cultivated poinsettias are bred in greenhouses, making them larger, bushier, and visually more appealing.Additionally, cultivated varieties are more carefully managed for their striking colors, which can range from deep red to pink and even yellow or white.
Time.news Editor: Those colors certainly add to the festive cheer! With the popularity of poinsettias during the Christmas season, I imagine they must require specific care.What advice do you have for someone looking to keep their poinsettia healthy throughout the holidays?
dr.Laura Martinez: Great question! To ensure your poinsettia thrives, find a bright spot in your home but away from direct sunlight. Water it when the top of the soil feels dry, but be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Also, keeping it away from cold drafts will help maintain its vibrancy and health throughout the season.
time.news Editor: Thank you for those tips! as we celebrate Christmas across different cultures, do you think the poinsettia has the potential to weave into other holiday traditions outside of Mexico?
Dr. Laura Martinez: Certainly! The poinsettia’s adaptability and beauty make it a wonderful fit for various holiday traditions around the world. As more cultures embrace sustainable and locally sourced decorations, we might see the poinsettia playing a more prominent role in global celebrations. It would be wonderful to see this flower symbolize unity and celebration across diverse communities.
Time.news Editor: That’s a beautiful sentiment, Dr. Martinez. Thank you for sharing your insights on this beloved holiday flower! Wishing you a joyful holiday season.
Dr. Laura Martinez: Thank you! And to you as well! Happy holidays!