University of Florida horticulturist Jim Barrett, left, and student Steve Wilson evaluate poinsettias grown in UF's greenhouses at the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Friday 12/17. Barrett annually evaluates poinsettias for breeders. His research ranges from determining the best growing and shipping practices to measuring consumer response to new varieties and colors. This holiday season a variety called Winter Rose, which has curled bracts that resemble a rose more than a poinsettia, is getting rave reviews from consumers, Barrett said. And by next holiday, Barrett said, new varieties that make good cut flowers should be ready for the floral market. (AP Photo: Eric Zamora, University of Florida/IFAS) Back to Print News Release Index