More than 50 million Americans will purchase a poinsettia plant this holiday season. In addition to their role as traditional Christmas decorations, poinsettias can serve as tokens of goodwill, friendship, and joy during the holiday season and beyond. So here is a little poinsettia education for you...

• When purchasing your plant, select a poinsettia with green foliage, strong, stiff stems, and completely-colored flowers (whether they be red, pink, white, yellow or variegated.) Make sure your plant has no fallen or yellow leaves and that it is fully balanced and attractive from all sides.

• Poinsettias thrive on bright, sunny natural daylight. Place your plant in indirect sunlight for at least six hours per day. Keep your room temperature between 68 and 70 degrees. DO NOT place your plant near drafts, heating vents, or appliances.

• Water the plant when the soil surface feels dry to a light touch. It's very important not to allow your plant to sit in standing water.

• It is not necessary to fertilize your poinsettias when they are in bloom. However, after the holidays, a balanced, all purpose household plant fertilizer will help maintain the rich, green foliage color and promote new growth.

• DO NOT place your poinsettia outside, as the plant is sensitive to chilling temperatures.