The Poinsettia: A Holiday Icon with Deep Roots
This week, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park celebrated a touching 50-year tradition. Eric Johnson delivered a red poinsettia to park headquarters, honoring rangers who rescued him and a friend from a life-threatening blizzard while hiking the Appalachian Trail in 1974.
The tradition began with Eric’s late mother, Wanneta Johnson, who started the annual gesture of thanks the year after the rescue. Today, Eric continues both the tradition and his passion for hiking.
The Poinsettia: A Holiday Icon with Deep Roots
The poinsettia, a vibrant red-and-green plant synonymous with Christmas, has a rich history that bridges cultures and traditions. Known in its native Mexico as cuetlaxochitl (kwet-la-SHO-she) in Nahuatl or noche buena (Christmas Eve) in Spanish, the plant was historically linked to winter festivals and Catholic traditions. Its connection to Christmas began in the 16th century, with legends of its red leaves symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem.
In 1828, Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first U.S. ambassador to Mexico, brought the plant to America, where it was named after him. However, Poinsett’s controversial legacy, including his roles in diplomacy and as a slave owner, has sparked discussions about reclaiming the plant’s indigenous name and heritage.
Today, the poinsettia continues to grace homes worldwide during the holidays, its vibrant leaves a reminder of its enduring cultural and historical significance. To honor its roots, many are revisiting its original name and history, celebrating it not just as a seasonal decoration but as a symbol of cross-cultural heritage.
Cuetlaxochitl from Meadow View Greenhouse in Lenoir City will deck the halls of TRM for the month of December.
Choose from 8’ and 10’ pots of pink, gold or red for your home’s seasonal décor, or gift them to spread holiday cheer!
