Attracting good fortune with lucky plants

KUCHING: As the New Year dawns, many cultures embrace the age-old traditions to invite prosperity and good fortune into their homes.

One such delightful tradition involves the careful selection of plants believed to bring luck.

From ancient traditions to modern preferences, certain plants have become the staple choice to decorate homes and spaces, with the belief that they bring positive energy and luck.

Speaking to Kuching plant seller Edmond Ong, the co-founder of EDM Colo (EDM, the name of the co-owner Edmund, and Colo, short for Colocasia), New Sarawak Tribune delved into the some of the “lucky plants” and how it can ensure a thriving and fortunate year ahead.

He explained that in some Asian cultures, certain plants are considered symbols of prosperity for the New Year.

“For example, in Chinese culture, oranges and tangerines are believed to bring good luck due to their pronunciation being similar to the word ‘auspicious.’

“These plants are often used to decorate homes and spaces to welcome the New Year,” he told New Sarawak Tribune in an interview.

Such traditions are also found in other cultures throughout the world. For instance, western cultures often associate the four-leaf clover with good luck, and Japanese culture regards the ‘lucky bamboo’ (dracaena sanderiana) to bring positive energy and luck.

According to Ong, the money plant (epipremnum aureum, otherwise known as devil’s ivy) is often associated with attracting wealth, prosperity and positive energy.

“The money plant is considered lucky in various cultures, including Feng Shui practices,” he said.

He further explained that the money plant has round leaves which symbolises coins, and placing it in the wealth corner (according to Feng Shui) of a home or office is believed to enhance financial luck.

Other than the money plant, the Tangerine or Orange Tree is also a wealth and good luck enhancer in Chinese culture, due to its pronunciation that is similar to ‘luck’ or ‘wealth’ in Chinese, said the

Moving to a modern context, he added that other plants such as the Anthurium and Colocasia, commonly known as the Laceleaf and Elephant Ear plants, respectively, have gained traction in recent years for ushering in good fortune.

“Anthurium is often associated with love, hospitality, and abundance. Its heart-shaped flowers and vibrant colours are considered auspicious, representing positive energy and good wishes.

“In Feng Shui, Anthurium is believed to attract positive energy and enhance the flow of chi (life force). Its elegant appearance is thought to bring harmony and prosperity to the surroundings,” he explained.

Meanwhile, the vibrant and varied colours of Colocasia leaves can symbolise different aspects, such as prosperity, wealth, and positive energy.

He said in some cultures, it is associated with fertility and abundance, with its ability to produce a bountiful harvest contributing to its symbolic representation of prosperity.

Apart from its symbolism, both plants have been favoured in the modern society because of its innovative and novel features in the modern context.

“Colocasia stands out with its vibrant colours, while Anthurium exudes an elegant ambiance,” he said.

Beyond the symbolic features of these plants, ensuring the well-being of these lucky plants is also key for them to thrive and infuse positive energy throughout the year.

With this, Ong shared some general care tips to ensure the plants flourish. These include proper sunlight exposure, watering, fertilising, air circulation and pruning.

Different patterns and colour of Colocasia, which can be achieved through cross breeding.

Money plant, often associated with attracting wealth, prosperity and positive energy.

1. Ensure that the plants receive the appropriate amount of sunlight based on their specific needs. Most plants associated with luck thrive in bright, indirect light.
2. Be mindful of the watering requirements of each plant. Overwatering or underwatering can adversely affect their health. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
3. Use a balanced, all-purpose fertiliser during the growing season. Follow the recommended guidelines for each type of plant.
4. Good air circulation is crucial for preventing diseases. Avoid placing plants in stagnant or overly humid conditions.
5. Lastly, tidy up by getting rid of dead or yellow leaves. It helps keep your plants healthy and looking good.

Concluding the interview, Ong reminded that specific beliefs can vary across cultures and individual perspectives.

“The positive attributes attributed to these plants are often part of a broader cultural context that associates certain characteristics or appearances with good fortune and positive energy,” he reminded.