Introduction
Feng Shui is a traditional Chinese practice which seeks to create auspicious environments in one’s home and life. It involves creating harmonious atmospheres and avoiding anything that could bring bad luck or misfortune into the home. This can include certain plants which are seen as bringing bad luck due to their symbolism, such as cactus, bamboo, and certain shade of bonsai, amongst many others.
Misconceptions
In Feng Shui, the use of plants is a key element to create a positive and welcoming atmosphere in a given space. However, there are some plants which are believed to bring bad luck according to this ancient Chinese practice. These so-called “bad luck plants” include cacti, bonsai trees, any plants with thorns or spikes, as well as bamboo – particularly if it has black buds or leaves. It is thought that such spiny and prickly varieties bring negative energy into the environment while their lush and sharp colorings act as reminders of aggression and danger. Additionally, many types of potted plants are thought to inhibit natural energy flow by trapping it inside the pot.
Energetically speaking, it is believed that these bad luck plants possess qualities which could hinder the natural exchange of qi (life force energy) within the home or workspace. They have been connected to obstacles, impediments and distractions from one’s life path due to their ability to block energy circulation. Furthermore, there is also a superstitious view within certain circles that suggest these types of plants attract illness and misfortune upon entering a residence if placed haphazardly near doorways or in living quarters. One way around this is to set up an area specifically devoted for them outside the house – either near entryways or on outdoor patios – where they can be admired safely away from occupied areas within the household or office space.
Plant Donts
Some “bad luck” plants to be avoided or not displayed in a Feng Shui home include cactuses, thorns, and needles because these sharp objects draw negative energy. Even though bamboo may be a classic symbol of peace and prosperity, it is also believed to bring about negative energy if it is placed incorrectly. Other unlucky plants include datura and nightshade which are toxic and should not be brought into the home, along with black lily which is thought to bring death. The Chinese say that having big red flowers such as peonies in the bedroom attracts many Yan energy which disturbs the relationship between two lovers. Pear tree branches should also never be placed in hallways as they supposedly create obstacles and block good luck from entering the house. These all have potential long-term implications so they should be avoided when designing a Feng Shui interior.
Unlucky Attributes
It is believed in Feng Shui that certain plants can be bad luck and attract negative energy. These plants are referred to as ‘negative’ or ‘bad luck’ plants and they are thought to bring with them a host of potential issues. Some of these plants include the cactus, rubber tree, lucky bamboo, arrowhead vine, fig trees and Pachira (also known as money tree).
The idea behind these ‘unlucky’ plants is that their strong shapes or spiky leaves create ‘shar chi’, which translates to mean ‘poisonous energy’. We don’t want this type of energy in our homes as it can affect our well-being. Furthermore, the key characteristics of these particular plants symbolize difficult life circumstances and create obstacles on your path. Cactuses have long thorns which represent blockades; the sharp edges give off an aggressive attitude which brings discord with it; the rubber tree has succulent leaves that represent finance problems; while lucky bamboo may connote a lack of good fortune because even though it looks like a great symbol for luck, its many stalks represents several difficulties appearing at once. All of these factors contribute to why these particular plants might be considered unlucky. On the other hand, it’s important to remember that feng shui is based on individual perceptions so any concerns should come down to each person’s own judgement – if you’re feeling overwhelmed with worry you may want to try changing up your home decor!
Mystical Cacti?
In the practice of Feng Shui, it is believed that all plants have certain energetic qualities which, if not properly balance in a living space, can be associated with misfortune. Cacti and other succulents are no different. In Feng Shui, there are three main principles to consider before introducing any plant into your home: chi (energy flow), yin (masculine energy) and yang (feminine energy). Cacti are generally seen as something more than just plants. It’s said that when a cactus is placed in a space of positive chi, it can bring good luck and protection from evil spirits. However, if the cactus is not planted correctly or does not fit into the overall energy of the room, then it has the capability to release bad luck energies which could spell disaster for those who live or work within its vicinity. Ultimately, each individual must decide how they want to incorporate this curious plant into their space; however, caution should always be taken due to its ability to absorb both positive and negative energies.
Danger of Forbidding
One of the worst luck plants in Feng Shui is Cactus. Cactus are believed to absorb negative energy, and while they may look attractive, they should be avoided. The sharp thorns of cacti symbolize danger hence drawing unwanted negative energy and could harm relationships between occupants that have conflicting views on its presence.
The “Buddha’s belly” bonsai tree is another forbidden plant as it can bring instability and bad luck to an environment if not properly cared for. It is believed that this type of Bonsai symbolizes uncertainty of future which causes stress within the home.
The Jade Plant has a powerful symbolism of money, which according to the ancient Chinese art would likely bring only fleeting wealth or unhappiness if planted at home. This symbolism also creates focus on materialism rather than true happiness or satisfaction for its users, so it should be avoided as well.
Make Mistakes
Bad luck plants in Feng Shui can bring down the energy of a home and create an unwelcome atmosphere. Little mistakes can make the difference between success and negative energy. Some common mistakes when arranging a space with Feng Shui includes putting plants in the wrong direction, such as having a plant facing inward toward the center of a room instead of toward an open space; not taking into consideration how large the plant will become when grown; overcrowding rooms with too many plants; or placing plants near windows, which can be overpowering to other elements in the space. Plants can also block important energy pathways that are key to opening up energy flow in a home. Additionally, using harsh materials for the container, like metal or plastic pots, rather than natural materials like clay or ceramic, can disturb the calmness of a living environment. It is important to utilize proper Feng Shui techniques when selecting and arranging plants within one’s home.
Alternatives
In Feng Shui, certain plants are said to bring misfortune and ill luck to any environment. These “bad luck plants” include the cactus, banana tree, bonsai tree, Chinese Banyan tree and even ivy. Even though they each have a prominent place in various cultural aesthetics and traditions, long-held belief warns of their damaging energy when included in the home or workplace.
Thankfully there are plenty of alternatives available that do not carry the same reputation but still offer great beauty. One example is bamboo trees, a traditional symbol for fortune and prosperity according to ancient Chinese teachings. For those seeking air purification, snake plants can be incorporated into the design as well as peace lilies which provide breathtaking blooms amidst their green foliage. For more unique offerings, succulents in a variety of colors create vibrant houseplants that brighten any living space without fear of bad luck. There are also lovely flowering plants like lavender, hibiscus and jasmine which invite good fortune with sweet smells and delicate petals. Finally elegant fronds from exotic palms fill interiors with a peaceful tropical feel that keeps negative energy at bay.
Summary
According to Feng Shui, certain plants are believed to bring bad luck. These include cactuses and bonsai plants, as well as dried and withered flowers that may have been sitting in your living room for months or even years. Cactus plants are associated with misfortune, so if you have one sitting in a visible spot in your home, it is important to remove it immediately. Dried and withered flowers emit negative energy which can make the atmosphere of the room very gloomy, so if possible replace them with fresh flowers or blooming plants. Bonsai plants are also extremely unlucky in Feng Shui because they symbolize stunted growth, which can be detrimental to the overall energy of a home or business. While some of these unlucky plants may look pleasing to the eye, it is better to err on the side of caution and get rid of them before their bad vibes start having an effect on your life.
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