Jingle Bell Poinsettia Plant
Undoubtedly, the holiday season brings with it an array of traditions – each with its own sense of charm. When it comes to representing the Christmas season, no plant holds more iconic status than the poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima). This winter’s favourite due to its red-and-green-splashed leaves, the poinsettia is perhaps most commonly associated with the holiday season. But within this broad classification of poinsettia, there are many different varieties. One such variety – the Jingle Bell Poinsettia – is a unique biological cultivar, highly popular around the holiday season, with a notable history worth remembering for plant-enthusiasts and holiday-decorators alike. In the following pass, we hope to shed light on the Jingle Bell Poinsettia through its care, history and purpose.
The History and Significance of Poinsettias
However, to understand the ways in which the Jingle Bell Poinsettia situates the poinsettia as a emblem of Christmas, a little context proves helpful. The poinsettia is a flowering shrub native to central America, and especially Mexico, where we know it first enjoyed its Christmas association in the 16th century. The Mexican legend of the poinsettia’s association with Christmas tells of a poor girl, too poor to afford an offering for the celebration of the Nativity, who is visited by an angel and advised the roadside. When she takes weeds to the altar of the local church, they miraculously flower into red blooms, the Flores de Noche Buena, or Flowers of the Holy Night.
Introduced into the United States by the country’s first Ambassador to Mexico, Joel Roberts Poinsett, in the 1820s – who gave it his own surname – it has, like the man himself, become part of the fade-proof landscape of Christmas decor, its own bilingual red and green leavened by the happy precedent of continuous availability.
What Makes the Jingle Bell Poinsettia Unique?
Within the entire family of poinsettias, however, one of the most beautiful and eye-catching is the Jingle Bell Poinsettia, boasting bracts unlike any other. Bracts are the colour leaf of poinsettias, commonly mistaken as flowers. Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells! This poinsettia variety has recurved (turned back on itself) scarlet bracts with fantastic white or cream-coloured speckles, like a jingle bell, hence the name.
The iridescent speckles give the plant a playful, holiday feel, and it is likely a favourite of those who wish to add some whimsy to their holiday decor. Being so unique to look at, this Jingle Bell Poinsettia is a lovely accent plant for your Christmas settings. As a centrepiece anywhere, a pretty accent on your mantle, or among your other Christmas floral arrangements, it is a real eye-catcher.
How to Care for a Jingle Bell Poinsettia
The Jingle Bell Poinsettia is easy to care for, which is why it has become a tradition for both first-time and seasoned gardeners all over the world. Just like any living plant, however, it needs to be provided with the right conditions in order to live long and prosper. Below is some expert advice that provides the necessary information on how to keep your Jtia in tipt
1. Lighting Requirements
Jingle Bell poinsettias will take the same direction/indirect light as other poinsettias. During the winter months, when day lengths are short (this is why we holiday-late-october birthdays in the northern hemisphere!) a south-facing window with several hours of light/day is perfect. But remember – no direct sun as it will scorch the bracts and the
2. Temperature and Humidity
They do best between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C) during the day and between 60°F to 65°F (15°C to 18°C) at night. Do not allow the plants to be exposed to any drafts, such as those found near windows, doors or heating vents, as this can put the plants in shock and cause leaf drop.
As well as water, poinsettias need humidity. If your house is in a dry indoor environment, use a humidifier or place the plant on a tray with pebbles and water to keep the ‘plant’s’ humidity appropriate.
3. Watering Practices
Water can make or break a Jingle Bell Poinsettia. Like most plants, poinsettias will not survive without adequate watering, but soil that is too waterlogged for too long will also damage the plant’s roots. Underwatering, especially during winter, will cause the plant to wilt and lose leaves. Overwatering will also lead to root rot. Water your poinsettia when the top inch of soil feels dry (stick one finger into the soil). Pour water onto the plant slowly until water runs out of the bottom of the pot.
4. Fertilization
Regular fertilisation should be given during the growing season from spring to early fall, providing more frequent feeding if the plant is indoors and getting limited light. A balanced, water-soluble fertiliser applied every two to four weeks should suffice to provide good colour and growth. A slower application can be made during the rest period in winter.
5. Pruning and Maintenance
Once the holidays are over and Christmas lights come down, you might want to keep your Jingle Bell Poinsettia as a year-round petite houseplant. New growth and a bushier shape can be achieved through pruning. In early spring, cut back stems with scissors or shears to about 4 to 6 inches from the soil.
As the plant advances in size and vigour, it might once again need repotting; this is usually done in late spring or early summer when the plant is refreshed after its rest period.
Decorating with Jingle Bell Poinsettias
The Jingle Bell Poinsettia’s vibrant appearance can fit right into any decorations you’d want to make for the holiday season. Here are some ideas on how to incorporate this unique poinsettia variety in your Christmas decor:
1. Holiday Centerpieces
A Jingle Bell Poinsettia can be the perfect table centrepiece. Decorate it with real candles, pinecones and some evergreen branches. Speckled bracts are a natural way to add visual interest and a pop of colour that’s perfect for most holiday themes.
2. Mantel and Fireplace Displays
Keep a few Jingle Bell Poinsettias back on your mantel or by your fireplace. Put them in decorative containers or wrap the containers in holiday-themed fabric or ribbon.
3. Wreaths and Garlands
You can also incorporate them into your holiday décor by using them as part of wreaths and garlands: typically, poinsettias are not employed in wreaths but the Jingle Bell version can add a beautiful touch as part of a mixed greenery wreath that’s à la mode for the holiday and becomes a showstopper with berries, ornaments and bows.
4. Gift-Giving
In addition to the regular poinsettia, the Jingle Bell variety is a beautiful festive gift and super easy to care for. Pick up a Jingle Bell Poinsettia for your friends, family or co-workers to add some cheer toair your Jingle Bell Poinsettia with a custom pot or planter for a memorable gift.
Extending the Life of Your Jingle Bell Poinsettia
Most people will treat a Jingle Bell Poinsettia like they would a disposable holiday plant, just to get rid of it as soon as the holidays are over. But with enough care, your poinsettia can continue to thrive well into the new year, and possibly rebloom next December as well.
To get the plant to re-bloom, you’ll need to follow a very specific light regimen beginning in the fall. Starting around the first week of October, put the plant in pitch-dark for 12 to 14 hours every night, and provide it with bright, indirect light during the day. The process – called photoperiodism – tricks the plant into ripening bracts in a way that imitates its natural habitat.
While you’re at it, keep on with regular watering and feeding. After this special light regimen, you can allow your Jingle Bell Poinsettia to rest undisturbed all year long, and it will once again reward you with brilliant holiday colours next December 25.