Mexican Fire Plant (Noun)
Meaning
Poinsettia of United States and eastern Mexico; often confused with Euphorbia heterophylla.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- The Mexican fire plant with large, brightly colored bracts is often associated with Christmas in the United States, which led to its common name, Poinsettia.
- Due to the historical confusion, the names Poinsettia and Mexican fire plant are used interchangeably, though technically Poinsettia only refers to one specific species.
- The vibrant colors displayed on the Mexican fire plant, also known as the Poinsettia, attract many visitors to gardens during winter holidays.
- Gardening experts warn of common mix-ups between the Mexican fire plant and a similarly named species, Euphorbia heterophylla, native to the Americas.
- Joel Roberts Poinsett popularized the Mexican fire plant in the United States, where it soon became an essential element of winter decorations and festivities.