Definition

Noun: - A tropical American plant (Euphorbia pulcherrima) characterized by its showy, brightly colored bracts (often scarlet red, but also available in pink, white, or yellow) that resemble petals and surround small, inconspicuous yellow flowers. The plant produces a milky, potentially irritating sap.

Usage

• The term "Mexican flameleaf" is used to refer specifically to this ornamental plant, especially in botanical or horticultural contexts. It is a common name for the plant more widely known as the poinsettia.
  • The greenhouse cultivated several varieties of the Mexican flameleaf for the holiday season.
  • While beautiful, the Mexican flameleaf's sap can cause skin irritation for some people.

Advanced Usage

• The name references the plant's origin (Mexico) and the flame-like appearance of its colorful bracts ("flameleaf").

Variants and Related Words

• Poinsettia (n): The most common name for the same plant (), especially in commercial and decorative contexts.
• Christmas star (n): Another common name highlighting its association with the Christmas season.
• Lobster plant (n): A less common alternative name.
• Painted leaf (n): A descriptive name referencing its colorful bracts.

Synonyms

• Poinsettia
• Christmas flower
• (scientific name)

Notes

• The showy red parts are not true flowers but modified leaves called bracts. The actual flowers are the small yellow structures in the center.
• All parts of the plant contain a milky latex sap that can be mildly toxic or irritating to skin and mucous membranes.

Noun

1. tropical American plant having poisonous milk and showy tapering usually scarlet petallike leaves surrounding small yellow flowers