8 Lucky Plants and Flowers for an Auspicious Chinese New Year

Pussy willows signify the start of spring. Also known as catkins, this plant with furry buds needs a change of water twice a week if it is in a vase. The multiple fluffy blossoms of the willow are associated with bountiful fortunes. The silver blossoms resemble silk, and they soon give forth to young shoots in the colour of jade green. Chinese enjoy such signs of growth, which also represents new beginnings and the coming of prosperity.

Also known as Dancing Ladies, these Oncidium orchids, with tiny yellow petals, appear to be sprouting gold coins. Besides their delightful shape, orchids have long been symbolic of fertility and abundance.

Anthurium comes in an auspicious red or pink colour, symbolising prosperity. With blossoms shaped like little hearts, these flowers are perfect for Valentine’s Day, too, and if you care for them properly, they’ll last a long time. Best of all, Anthurium can remove formaldehyde, xylene and ammonia from the air.

Peace lilies are like Anthurium but with ivory white flowers instead. Keep them around the home as they are one of the most effective air-filtering plants, removing chemicals like trichloroethylene, formaldehyde, xylene, benzene and ammonia.

Peonies are often associated with richness and peace in Chinese mythology because they grow in clusters. Red peonies are considered particularly more auspicious than their pink counterparts.

Known as hu die lan in Mandarin, this Orchid plant is a popular festive plant as its petals resemble the wings of a butterfly, symbolising happiness, spring, vitality and longevity.

Chrysanthemums are an auspicious choice for the season with their bright gold or amber hues. The plant is also said to symbolise longevity, while those with gold blooms represent wealth and prosperity.

Orchids are believed to bring in good feng shui! Therefore, long-lasting orchids in an auspicious red hue are the perfect Chinese New Year gift to wish friends and family a year filled with good health and virtue.

Other popular CNY flowers and plants include Marigold, Peach Blossoms, and the Money Plant, for obvious reasons!