Hi Susan,

You can certainly use Poinsettia flowers from your Poinsettia plants in cut flower arrangements. There are various theories as to the best way to do it. The desired result is the same: stop the flow of latex sap that seeps out of the cut end of the stem. Here are a couple of suggested methods.

1. Sear the cut ends of the Poinsettia Stems with a candle

2. Immediately place the cut ends of the poinsettia stems in a bucket of hot water and re-cut the stems while they are in the water. Leave them in the hot water for a few minutes until the latex stops seeping out the cut end then move them to a vase of clean water.

The sap isn’t poisonousPlants are a great addition to homes and offices, but it’s important to know whether your plants are dangerous to children, pets, or even adults. Some plants contain chemicals such as oxalates, solanine, glycosides, or alkaloid lycorine that may cause vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, swelling and redness of the mouth, throat, and lips, and trouble breathing. Touching parts of certain plants, especially the sap, may cause various skin irritations. The weight and age of the human or pet involved, and the part and amount of plant eaten determine how severe the reaction to the toxins will be. Although plants may be listed as non-toxic, they can still cause individual allergic reactions. If there is any question after a houseplant has been ingested or touched immediately call the Poison Control Center 1-800-222-1222 The Handbook of Poisonous and Injurious Plants [Paperback]is an excellent reference to keep around if you have young children and pets. but it may irritate your skin so always wear gloves when working with cut poinsettia stems.

Poinsettia Plant Flowers