This article was published on December 1st, 2019

It’s poisonous, it’s deadly, and yet somehow it became the flower and plant of Christmas and the holidays. Many people can’t even correctly pronounce it, but the poinsettia is a signature and staple of December. 

Originally, poinsettias are from Mexico. There’s a Mexican legend from the 16th century of a young girl too poor to bring anything to the celebration of Jesus’ birth. An angel told her to pull some weeds and bring that as her offering, and when the girl complied and placed them on the alter, red blossoms divinely sprouted from the weeds and turned into poinsettias. From the 17th century on, friars were using poinsettias in their Christmas decor. In Spanish, they are called Flor de Nochebuena, or Christmas Eve flower. But in 1825, the United States sent its first minister to Mexico who later introduced America to the plant: Joel Roberts Poinsett. And the name took flight.

These red and green plants make beautiful editions to holiday decorations and are easily to acquire in most florists and grocery stores during the holidays. Apparently, they’re also good luck. Just don’t eat them and keep them away from pets.

Move over, mistletoe. The Poinsettia Cocktail is a cheeky nod to our favorite festive flower during the holidays.

The Poinsettia Cocktail:

• 1 oz Stoli Premium
• ½ oz orange liqueur
• 2 oz cranberry juice
• Sparkling wine

Shake Stoli Premium and orange liqueur over ice. Strain into a champagne coup. Top with sparkling wine.

Enjoy and drink responsibly.