Poinsettia

Across Canada, the poinsettia is a cherished plant that comes into full bloom in December to beautify homes, offices, stores and institutions during the holiday season. It's considered one of North America's best-selling potted plants, with a number of commercial growers in British Columbia churning out thousands of festive blooms for Canadians to enjoy each year.

This enduring Canadian staple has a fascinating history. The poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) originally hails from Mexico and was cultivated by the Aztecs as a gift from the gods. In the early 1800s, Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first US ambassador to Mexico, brought cuttings home to South Carolina. From there, the plant's festive role spread across the continent, ultimately leading to its current name, which honours the plant-loving ambassador.

This coin is the third issue of the Canada's Favorite Flowers collection.
The first coin of the series, released in July 2014, depicts the Tulip.
The second coin of the series, released in September 2014, depicts the Rose.
The third and the last coin of the series, released in November 2014, depicts the Poinsettia.

CANADA'S FAVOURITE FLOWERS - POINSETTIA - 2014 CANADIAN COINS 03 is categorised COINS AND PAPER MONEY / 08- ROYAL CANADIAN MINT / CANADA'S FAVOURITE FLOWERS (3) and sold by l'Imaginaire, a store and specialised website.