The Traditional Christmas Plant You May Not Want To Leave On Your Kitchen Counter

Not all beauty is benign. Some things look charming, yet carry traits that contradict the comfort they promise. We rarely question them, especially when they arrive with tradition and nostalgia. But the truth is, some things belong at a safe distance, no matter how red and undeniably Christmassy they are. We're talking about the traditional holiday diva many people buy without a second thought: poinsettias. It's the one plant you may need to think about before putting on your kitchen counter.

The stem, sap, and leaves of poinsettias can be mildly irritating. And while you're certainly not snacking on its leaves, all it takes is a slight tilt or a bumped elbow in the stem for that milky sap to leak onto the counter. And the counter is where everything eventually passes, from your cutting board to the wooden spoon you rest for a moment while the pot simmers. This means it won't take long for it to sneak into your cooking, potentially causing stomach issues. On top of that, skin contact can trigger a rash, and people with certain allergies are more vulnerable.

Another big issue is that curious cats and dogs love chewing on unfamiliar plants. A poinsettia sitting out in the open is an invitation for them to take a test bite. Ingesting this plant can lead to GI upset and generally unhappy tummies. So yes, pretty as it is, that poinsettia deserves a spot that lets you make your house more pet-friendly while keeping you safe.

You don't have to exile this festive beauty, thinking it's better to be safe than sorry. Sure, it's not exactly a chew toy for your fur babies or a garnish for your cookies, but the risks, while real, are far from catastrophic. Research shared by Purdue University points out that pets would have to chow down on surprisingly large amounts before showing severe symptoms. And for humans, a scientific study looked at 23,000 poinsettia ingestion cases, with 96% not resulting in a trip to the doctor. So, yes, caution matters, but panic is unnecessary.

The key is placement. To incorporate gorgeous poinsettias into your holiday decor, keep them on a high shelf or a side table away from curious mouths and paws. A windowsill where it can soak up light without photobombing your cooking adventures is also a suitable place. If you decide to prune, there are mistakes to avoid when caring for a poinsettia plant. For example, steer clear of touching it with your bare hands and make sure you wear gloves. If you do happen to brush against it, act fast. Wash your hands immediately with gentle soap and water. In case you accidentally ingested some, swish your mouth with water. And of course, if something feels seriously off, contact your local poison control center right away. They're the pros for a reason. With a few simple precautions, your poinsettia can stay in your home, and everyone — humans, fur babies, and festive plants — can coexist in holiday harmony.