If you are looking for a twist on tradition or a new take on holiday style, then specialty poinsettias are perfect for you. Long favorites of interior decorators, these holiday beauties will add sophisticated style to your festivities.

You will find new poinsettia colors and color combinations as well as new flower forms. Even the leaves on some varieties have a bright new appearance. Along with new looks, breeders have improved poinsettias so that they last beautifully for weeks and weeks with little care. During a busy holiday season, little care can be a big benefit.

Tops on the list of most people are a couple of two-toned charms. Poinsettia Ice Punch has rich, fuchsia-toned flowers with irregular icy-white shadings down the center of each petal. Ice Crystals have petals of creamy white with wide edges of deep salmon-red.

The traditional crimson-red flowers of Tapestry are set off by spring-green leaves with bright, golden variegation. It is truly a striking combination.

If red just does not work with your color scheme, then spark things up a bit with a pair of poinsettias: Maroon or Burgundy. Maroon has very large flowers of chestnut red or claret, which combines beautifully with neutrals and warm wood tones. Burgundy is just that—a poinsettia in deep, rich wine.

Want to give your holidays a jolt? Then consider Orange Spice. This stunner is a warm burnt-orange. Cinnamon Star has creamy gold petals distinctly dusted with nutmeg and cinnamon. Use them both for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Gary Jones is the Chief Horticulturist at Armstrong Garden Centers. Email him your gardening questions to growingdialogue@armstronggarden.com.