Chinese evergreens (Aglaonema spp.) are popular houseplants that are prized for their lush, colorful foliage that sports various shades of red or pink. These plants are also rich in symbolic value, especially in feng shui. In this article, I’ll run through everything you need to know about the meaning and symbolism of Chinese evergreen plants.
Chinese Evergreen Meaning and Symbolism
Chinese evergreens have a range of meanings in various cultures, mainly in Eastern Asia. These plants symbolize abundance, perseverance, positive energy, purity, resilience, strength, and wisdom. Chinese evergreens are also associated with the Wood element in feng shui.
Chinese evergreens are frequently used as good luck plants in many cultures. These ornamental evergreens are often given as gifts to bring good fortune or prosperity and are also associated with the positive energy of nature.
The Symbolism of Chinese Evergreen Foliage
Most of the meaning and symbolism associated with Chinese evergreens refers to the foliage. Aglaonema plants have evergreen leaves commonly related to endurance, longevity, perseverance, resilience, strength, and wisdom.
The evergreen leaves of Chinese evergreens are also linked to purity and the positive energy and power of nature. However, many types of Chinese evergreens also have other colorful patterns on their leaves. Some of these different colors are associated with different meanings.
For example, leaves with spots and stripes represent small pleasures. Red leaves are associated with the positive energy of warm homes that don’t get cold. Agalaonema with silver patterns on their leaves are believed to be symbols of prosperity that help their owners avoid poverty.
Chinese Evergreens and Feng Shui
Chinese evergreens are versatile and important plants in feng shui, commonly linked with good luck, good fortune, and prosperity.
They are also associated with active yang energy, especially as they symbolize the positive energy of nature. As such, Chinese evergreens shouldn’t be kept in bedrooms as they can disrupt the calm Yin energy within the room.
Like all houseplants, Chinese evergreens are strongly linked to the Wood element. Wood is one of the five primary elements and is linked to creativity, prosperity, and family. According to the Bagua map, the Wood element is strongest in the Eastern and Southeastern parts of our homes.
Positioning Chinese evergreens in these areas can boost the power of the Wood element. In Eastern areas, this contributes to family energy. In Southeastern areas, this can boost prosperity and wealth.
The Protective Powers of Chinese Evergreen Plants
Chinese evergreens can also be used to reduce negative energy and encourage positive energy. Negative energy or chi congregates in empty spaces within our homes. By adding a Chinese evergreen to an empty shelf, you can dispel the negative energy that’s gathering there.
In Chinese folklore, it is believed that Chinese evergreen plants have protective qualities. They are thought to ward off negative energy, evil spirits, and misfortune. Placing these plants near entrances or in areas believed to be susceptible to negative influences.
About Chinese Evergreen Plants
Chinese evergreens belong to the Aglaonema genus of the Arum family (Araceae). These evergreen perennials are native to tropical and subtropical forests across parts of Asia. Chinese evergreens struggle in cold temperatures and will only survive outdoors in USDA Zones 10 and 11.
Aglaonema plants come in several varieties that are grown for their fabulous foliage. Chinese evergreens have either slender, sword-shaped leaves or glossy, oval-shaped leaves. The foliage is mainly green but does display patterns in other colors like red or silver.
Chinese Evergreen Meaning and Symbolism FAQs:
Is the Chinese Evergreen a Lucky Plant?
Chinese evergreens are seen as symbols of abundance, prosperity, and fresh energy. As such, Chinese evergreens are recognized as lucky plants that can help bring good fortune. According to feng shui, placing Chinese evergreens in the southeastern parts of your home could boost your prosperity.
What is the Spiritual Meaning of Aglaonema?
Aglaonema plants, also known as Chinese evergreens, symbolize abundance, purity, prosperity, and the positive energy of nature. As evergreen plants, Chinese evergreens can also represent perseverance, resilience, and wisdom. Due to the green color of its foliage, Chinese evergreens are also linked with fresh, vibrant energy.
Where Do I Place Chinese Evergreen for Feng Shui?
In feng shui, Chinese evergreens are associated with the Wood element, which governs family and prosperity. According to the Bagua map, positioning Chinese evergreens in the eastern and southeastern parts of our homes boosts these aspects.
Wrapping Up
Chinese evergreens symbolize abundance, endurance, fresh energy, good luck, and strength. As evergreen plants, Chinese evergreens also represent the positive energy of nature. In feng shui, Chinese evergreens promote good luck, especially in the Southeastern areas of the Bagua map.
For more, see our guide to 9 amazing uses and benefits of Chinese Evergreen plants.
Edd is a budding content writer and gardener living in the United Kingdom. He has a bachelor's degree in Creative and Professional Writing and has written for several gardening publications online. He is passionate about nature and sustainability with a focus on gardening and wildlife.
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