HeritageSouth-Facing

Poinsettia

Sherwin-Williams · SW6594

The Analysis

Poinsettia is a deep, saturated red that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 10.23. It will make a room feel cozy and enclosed rather than airy, effectively pulling the walls in to create an intimate atmosphere.

Due to its intensity, this shade is best used as a high-impact accent wall, for built-in cabinetry, or in small, contained spaces like a powder room. It is too overwhelming for a main wall color in a large, open-concept living area.

LRV 10

History & Origin

This rich, classic red fits perfectly into heritage or traditional design schemes, reminiscent of formal dining rooms or libraries from the 19th century. It offers a timeless, sophisticated weight that modern, lighter palettes often lack.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this color with warm wood tones like walnut or dark oak to ground the space, and use brushed brass hardware to complement the red’s undertones. Avoid white trim if you want a seamless, moody look, or keep the trim crisp white for a high-contrast, formal aesthetic.

The Mood

This color is highly energizing and stimulating, making it a bold choice for active spaces. Because it is so intense, it is better suited for areas where you want to feel lively rather than areas where you need to relax or sleep.

Colour harmonies

Complementary

Opposite on the colour wheel — bold, high-contrast pairings. Use for a feature wall or furniture you want to command attention.

Analogous

Neighbouring hues — cohesive and calm, great for layered schemes that feel collected rather than matched.

Split complementary

Near-opposites for strong contrast with a little less tension than a pure complement. A favourite of interior designers.

Triadic

Three evenly spaced hues — balanced, vibrant, and versatile. Keep one dominant and use the others sparingly.

Tetradic (square)

Four hues in a square on the wheel — rich, dynamic palettes. Best when one colour leads and the others accent.

Monochromatic

Dark, mid, and light steps on the same hue — a failsafe gradient for trim, walls, and accents without shifting colour family.

Brand Matches

Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.

  • Pop of Poppy

    Valspar · V043-2

  • Ruby Ring

    Behr · S-G-150

  • Currant Red

    Benjamin Moore · 1323

  • Geranium

    Behr · UL100-7

  • No More Drama

    Behr · P140-7

  • Bonaparte

    Benjamin Moore · CC-64

Lighting

See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.

  • Natural