Poinsettia, as abundant during the celebratory season as the Christmas tree or the nativity scene, is intricately detailed in decorations everywhere. Encountering poinsettia arrangements marking the holidays is practically inevitable in late November or December. However, many are oblivious to the fact that the flower’s beginnings have no connection with the common name it bears.
Instead, poinsettias, indigenous to Mexico and portions of Central America, are only referred to as such due to Joel Roberts Poinsett. Poinsett, who was an avid botanist, served as the first U.S. ambassador to Mexico in the early 19th century. Historical records indicate that Poinsett stumbled upon the cuetlaxóchitl plant in Mexico, particularly in Taxco, located in the state of Guerrero. Enchanted by it, he brought it back to his home and began gifting it to companions. In a few years, the plant began being sold with Poinsett’s name linked to it, thus “elevating its prominence.”
Certainly, Poinsett did not “discover” the plant any more than Christopher Columbus “found” America. The cuetlaxóchitl plant had thrived in the region for centuries and had been known by various names, with cuetlaxóchitl – the Nahuatl term signifying “a flower that withers” perhaps being the most prevalent. The Aztecs used the flower as a dye and for medicinal purposes, primarily derived from the plant’s milky white sap.
The association of the cuetlaxóchitl with Christmas dates back to the 16th century when Franciscan friars used it to embellish Nativity scenes. According to Mexican legend, a girl named Pepita realized she had no offering on her way to church on Christmas Eve. Consequently, Pepita collected some weeds from the road. When she placed them at the base of the altar, they transformed into the blossoms of the cuetlaxóchitl – with the flora recognized as “la flor de Nochebuena” or “the Christmas flower” from that point onward.
Therefore, during this festive season, while you’re adorning with loved ones, do bear in mind the origin of cuetlaxóchitl and how it’s interwoven with our Latine heritage. Reclaim it.
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