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Taiwan Develops Homegrown Poinsettias To Withstand Climate Change

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By Joseph Wu/Billy Wu/Sandy Chi

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Climate change is putting a strain on Taiwan's Christmas flowers, the poinsettias, causing them to turn red later than usual. But a research team in Taiwan has developed its own homegrown varieties that can better handle the warmer temperatures and are more suitable for the country's weather.

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Poinsettias: A Symbol of Christmas Spirit and Taiwan's Floral Innovation 

As Christmas approaches, one of the most recognizable symbols of the holiday season in Taiwan is the vibrant poinsettia. Known as “Christmas red” in Chinese, this flowering plant brings festive cheer to homes, markets and public spaces across the country. Its striking red blossoms are a hallmark of the holiday period, creating a colorful atmosphere as families prepare for the celebrations. 

Christmas Blooms Light Up the Flower Market 

During the December holidays, the local flower markets in Taiwan come alive with the colors of poinsettias. Many residents flock to these markets to purchase the plants and decorate their homes with the vibrant red blooms. As one local resident explains, "It’s almost Christmas, and I want to make my home a bit more warm and festive."  

A Tradition With Roots in Taiwan 

Although poinsettias are native to Mexico and Central America, they were introduced to Taiwan in the 1960s and have since become a beloved part of the holiday tradition. Today, they rank as Taiwan’s second most popular potted plant, after the moth orchid. The cultivation of poinsettias is concentrated in several key regions, including Nantou, Taoyuan, Miaoli and Yilan. Nantou, in particular, leads the country in production, growing 400,000 pots annually—about a third of Taiwan’s total supply. 

A Growing Demand Despite Climate Challenges 

This year, Taiwan’s flower markets are anticipating an increase in production, with about 1.15 million poinsettias expected to be grown, a 20,000-pot increase from the previous year. Despite the rise in production, some florists report that business has been slower than in previous years. One florist notes that the warm winter this year has delayed the blooming of the flowers. "In warm winters, the flowers bloom later," she explains, adding that the cultivation areas didn't turn red as expected due to the unusual weather patterns. 

Another florist points out that climate has affected the intensity of the colors this season. "Poinsettias aren’t selling that well this year because they’re not red enough," he says. This situation highlights the vulnerability of the floral industry to the effects of climate change. 

Overcoming Climate Challenges With Innovation 

Amid these challenges, there is hope on the horizon. At a university in central Taiwan, Professor Chen Yen-ming and his research team have developed a new set of poinsettia varieties called the "Mythology Series." These homegrown varieties are specifically bred to bloom in time for Christmas, even in the face of climate variability. The team’s efforts are focused on creating poinsettias that not only withstand the changing weather but also retain their brilliant color throughout the holiday season. 

One standout variety, "Thor," has been designed to thrive under Taiwan’s unique climate conditions. According to Professor Chen, "Thor’s first advantage is it’s easy to cultivate. It also changes color relatively quickly, and its leaves stand upright very well." These traits make it an ideal choice for growers looking for resilient and colorful poinsettias. 

A Step Toward Sustainability 

The development of these domestic poinsettia varieties marks a significant milestone for Taiwan’s horticulture industry. Having homegrown plants that are well-suited to local conditions is a crucial step toward greater self-sufficiency and sustainability. As Professor Chen explains, "Having our own varieties is the only way to determine the direction of the industry." Taiwan's reliance on imported varieties has previously left growers vulnerable to supply disruptions. By creating their own varieties, Taiwan is securing the future of its poinsettia industry. 

With these new varieties, Taiwan is positioning itself as a global leader in the cultivation of poinsettias. Growers are now aiming for a future where more "Made in Taiwan" plants can bring festive cheer not just to Taiwan, but to the world. As the holidays approach, the poinsettia stands as a symbol of both tradition and innovation—bringing a touch of red to the world and a sense of resilience to Taiwan’s flower industry.