OH, CHRISTMAS TREE

December 16, 2015

It has been said, "The older we get, the smaller the Christmas tree." This often is less an indication of diminished Christmas spirit than a change in lifestyle: downsizing, different priorities, or children leaving the nest, often landing far from home.

I remember the first year my husband and I forfeited putting up a tree. We were in a 'tiny house' before tiny houses were in vogue. Literally, tiny: 24 x 24 square feet. It served as our living quarters while we added on the main part of the house. Oh, those were the days. We were so excited when we completed the house with 13' ceilings in the living room, we bought the tallest tree we could find, then scratched our heads when we realized we had only a fraction of the ornaments needed to cover the tree.

Had I known then what I know now.

A plant native to Mexico known as 'La Flora de la Nochabeuna' (Flower of the Holy Night) can be found growing as tall as a small tree reaching 10-15 feet tall. What once was considered a weed grew into a multi-million dollar industry. This special holiday 'tree' is now seen in various forms throughout the Christmas season. Some displays are grand and spectacular, others are simple and small--none need special decoration, but all need special growing conditions to achieve the desired results. Poinsettias require complete darkness for 12 consecutive hours for at least five straight days to trigger photoperiodism. We learned in the Environmental Horticulture program at Gwinett Tech that even the light from a vending machine in a greenhouse is enough to throw off the process. This photoperiodism is required to change the bracts from green to bright red. Many mistake the bracts for flowers, which are available in a range of color.

An American physician and diplomat found this interesting plant growing in southern Mexico in the 1830s and sent cuttings back to Charleston, South Carolina. "The rest," as they say, "is history."

Nothing is lovelier than a traditional evergreen beautifully decorated Christmas tree. Although, there are years when I might not put up a traditional tree, you can be sure I will always have at least one Poinsettia. Thank you, Joel Roberts Poinsett.

[Carolyn Fjeran, LowTide explorer/reflective writer; horticulturist & gardener; former writer for Cooperative Extension Service, Master Gardeners and The Newnan Times Herald]

Photo posted by Facebook friend, Paula Planck Ellis