I loved the festive color of the poinsettia when I was a child. Each December, as a special gift, my father presented my mother with a vibrant red plant, which became the centerpiece for our Christmas decorations.

As a garden enthusiast, I marvel at how long -lived the bright red leaves are, and how easy it is to care for this plant.

When I was a primary school teacher, I came across the Legend of the Poinsettia, which I was naturally eager to share with my young students. In that way, the legend and the plant have become a special gift to other generations.

Tomie dePaola, my favorite children’s author/illustrator, created a lovely retelling of the legend. Click below the picture to hear him read this delightful story.