Poinsettia season is almost here! Remind customers that the plants are not poisonous to humans or pets.

Be prepared to dispel the toxicity myth and answer customer questions about poinsettias with these three points:

• Scientific research from The Ohio State University has proven the poinsettia to be non-toxic. All parts of the plant were tested, including the leaves and sap, which secret a compound similar to latex.
• As with any non-food product, the poinsettia is not meant to be eaten. If eaten, poinsettias can cause varying degrees of discomfort, but ingestion is not deadly. Regardless, the plant should be kept out of the reach of young children and curious pets.
• According to the American Latex Allergy Association, only about 1 percent to 6 percent of the general population is allergic to latex, and “… one would have to have significant contact with the poinsettia plant’s latex directly to have an allergic reaction … only a small drop of latex that can be immediately wiped off of the skin is unlikely to cause an allergic reaction.”

Find more poinsettia facts to share here.

The Society of American Florists has created a variety of Poinsettia Fliers and Brochures to  download, copy, print and place on the counter near your displays. Materials available include a poinsettia flyer, a one-page fact sheet, and two brochures (one that is ready to print and one that is customizable). Use these documents to teach your customers about toxicity myths, helpful facts and care and handling tips.

Stephanie Brady is the communications and event coordinator for the Society of American Florists.