John Roberts “Joel’” Poinsett (March 2, 1774 - December 12, 1851)

The Mexicans have their name for the flower (Flor de Nochebuena—Flower of the Most Holy Night) and the scientists have their identifying moniker (The botanical name for  the plants is Euphorbia pulcherrima--pulcherrima means “most beautiful”--by German botanist Wilenow who was dazzled by their color), but how did Americans come to know it as the Poinsettia?

Born in South Carolina in 1774, “Joel” Poinsett became a special agent to South America, served in his state legislature, and was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives before heading to Mexico as special envoy. He was the first American ambassador to Mexico (appointed by Andrew Jackson) and was later a Unionist in rebel South Carolina. His outstanding career also included serving as Secretary of War under Martin Van Buren (1837–1841).

But Poinsett is best known for the flower that bears his name. An accomplished botanist, in 1828 he sent some of the brilliant flowers from Mexico to his own nursery in South Carolina, and also to other friends and American horticulturalists, and they thrived.

As the plant became more popular, historian and horticulturalist William Prescott was asked to give the plant a popular name. He chose Poinsettia, honoring Joel Poinsett's contribution.

(A little known fact is that Poinsett was also the person who introduced the American Elm to Mexico, with the end result being a literal swapping of botanical gifts.  Who knows what use the Mexicans made of the American Elm, but without their Flor de Nochebuena, the holiday season just wouldn't be the same for millions of Americans).