Chinese New Year is also known as the Spring Festival, and it’s an auspicious time to bring flowers and plants into your living and work spaces, to attract good luck & prosperity for the year ahead.

Chinese New Year is one of the most elaborate and colourful times in the calendar year, and a time when the wholesalers, florists, and China Town are buzzing with activity. Red and gold are of course the most auspicious and prominent colours, the red symbolizing happiness and the gold, wealth.

Flowers, blooms, and plants play a significant role welcoming guests, diners, and visitors in restaurants, hotels, and homes during this period as they represent rebirth and growth.  It’s common to see vases filled with ‘Kai Yun Zhi’ or Lucky Bamboo with red ribbon tied around them representing the five elements: Earth, Metal, Wood, Fire & Water, and it’s said they balance the flow of ‘chi’ (energy) as well as being a symbol of longevity.

Below Is A Breakdown Of Five Of The Most Popular Flowers And Plants, And Why They’re Good To Have Around:

1. Kumquat Trees come in plant form and are very popular. They represent abundance and happiness. They’re slow-growing evergreen shrubs which bear small fruits resembling oranges. Make sure to water regularly. The orange is auspicious because it phonetically sounds like ‘GOLD’ and symbolizes good luck and prosperity. The oranges themselves are often given as gifts to friends at this time of year as a gesture of good tidings.

2. Peach Blossoms are bright pink flowers that symbolize two traits for a successful life: Endurance & courage.

3. Pussy Willow signifies growth & prosperity. Place a nice bunch in a vase of fresh water, and watch them grow. In addition, it is customary and can be fun to adorn the branches with ‘good luck’ & ‘prosperity’ symbols such as ingots, coins, and jewels; and if you’re lucky and the timing is right, these buds will blossom by Lap Chun – the Day Of Spring.

4. Phalaenopsis Orchids symbolize vitality and longevity. At this time of year you’ll find pots of brightly-coloured Phalaenopsis in abundance. Their petals resemble the wings of a butterfly, and whether you’re superstitious or not, they make beautiful gifts. Phalaenopsis orchids are sure to make any host feel happy, just by their sheer beauty and elegance.

5. Chrysanthemums, which are long-lasting and durable, are a very auspicious flower and a traditional favourite during the New Year. Combined with other symbols of longevity such as pine or bamboo, they will attract good luck to any interior.

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