Euphorbia pulcherrima - A change from birds

For once I seem to be doing the right thing by this poinsettia as it has lasted much longer than normal - and looks pretty healthy. Temperamental plants at the best of times, unfortunately much of the control is out of your hands because you don't know how long they might have been sitting in a draft in the shop.
Anyway, for now this one is doing fine and they are gorgeous plants; the epitome of the festive colour.**
Helen bought me this - thanks doll!
canon 5d; 55mm; iso400; f/9; 5sec; stack of 6

re yesterday - when I emerged from my darkened room (this morning) the evidence indicated the 2 mice had not survived the night.

**According to wikipedia "The plant's association with Christmas began in 16th century Mexico, where legend tells of a young girl who was too poor to provide a gift for the celebration of Jesus' birthday. The tale goes that the child was inspired by an angel to gather weeds from the roadside and place them in front of the church altar. Crimson "blossoms" sprouted from the weeds and became beautiful poinsettias.From the 17th century, Franciscan friars in Mexico included the plants in their Christmas celebrations. The star-shaped leaf pattern is said to symbolize the Star of Bethlehem, and the red color represents the blood sacrifice through the crucifixion of Jesus In Spain it is known as "Flor de Pascua", meaning "Easter flower". In both Chile and Peru, the plant became known as "Crown of the Andes"."