At my erstwhile workplace, every first week of December, my initial unfailing gifts to colleagues would be poinsettias in pots — a living symbol of the spirit of the holiday season.

Day after day at the office, I observed the utmost care extended to these quirks of nature. And just before the most-anticipated Christmas-New Year break, each would lovingly take them home to share with family and household.

Years later, these adorable creations serve as presents for various circles of amigas y amigos with different interests in life and yet already seem to have almost everything. In fact, they periodically downgrade properties and collections of all sorts. Thus, these genuinely appreciated tokens continue to display a splash and warmth of color in residences of dear friends.

Once delivered to their homes, it automatically blends with their meticulously-chosen holiday décor. Through time, some have even faithfully shared images of the live shrubs in their simple and elaborate setups — on top of coffee tables, the main dining hall, or in their indoor pocket gardens.

Truth be told, it has saved me countless hours poring over wishlists and more wishlists — it is a welcome stress-relieving life saver in an already stressful moment in the calendar!

Moving on, poinsettias are an interesting type of flora. Although its red fragments seem to be its petals — although other varieties and colors exist — those are actually its leaves! The unassuming yellow crowns at the center are its true blooms. Its fronds are exposed and deprived of light several times to produce this magical effect.

Locally, poinsettias of desire are mainly sourced from King Louis Flowers and Plants, led by Efren Chatto and his dentist-turned-florist wife Nikki.

Born and his bred in the Visayas, Efren and his passion for plants and flowers garnered the respect of the citizens of Baguio City and its environs for his outstanding showcases and award-winning floats during the Panagbenga Flower Festival ever since its inception in 1996.

Today, his inconspicuous garden has blossomed into a sweeping estate across Longlong, Alapang and Highest in Benguet, plus Intavas in Bukidnon, which supplies most requests from all over the country. Due to their active role in the propagation of the cut flowers scene, the couple have fostered lasting partnerships with trusting clients who continue to be loyal patrons.

As a quick guideline on how to care for the poinsettias, here are some tips to remember: During December, be proud and display the flowers! Water only as needed. Once February arrives, the color will fade. Transfer it near a sunny spot and fertilize to stimulate new growth. When June comes, repot and supplement with fertilizer as required. Maintain it in a lightly shaded area.

However, in August, return to the sunny zone. Finally, once the Ber-months are here, expose the poinsettias to lights strictly from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Then, they must be enveloped in complete blackout darkness from 5 p.m. to 8 a.m.

Follow this routine for longevity and your babies by now should be ready to bloom once again! Are you up for the challenge?