Lucky Bamboo Symbolism
Lucky bamboo is a perfect option if you’re looking for a Feng Shui compatible plant. According to the Chinese practice, lucky bamboo is related to the five elements: Earth (pebbles in the container), wood (the plant itself), water (the water in the container), fire (the red ribbon often tied on the plant) and metal (the metal coin attached to the ribbon). Since the bamboo is hollow it’s said to be a great conductor of Chi energy. This allows wisdom and prosperity to flow through. The amount of stalks also has a big effect on the meaning of a particular lucky bamboo plant. They all have positive meanings except for four-stalk lucky bamboo, which is one you should avoid. See the different meanings below:
- One stalk: represents unity and unobstructed flow of energy.
- Two stalks: represents good luck in love (a great gift for a partner).
- Three stalks: represents continued growth, birth and family.
- Four stalks: represents death (avoid this plant, it is also considered a rude gift).
- Five stalks: represents wealth, longevity, luck, happiness and prosperity.
- Six stalks: represents wealth through opportunity and luck (great for businesses).
- Seven stalks: represents health and personal growth.
- Eight stalks: represents infinite energy and many blessings.
- Nine stalks: represents success and gratitude.
Common Lucky Bamboo Questions
Have a question about your lucky bamboo plant? Check out these frequently asked questions and find your answer. If you don’t see your inquiry, feel free to post it in the comment section below.
Why does a bamboo plant turn yellow?
A bamboo plant can turn yellow for a couple of reasons. These include too much fertilizer, too much chlorine or fluoride in the water, or too much sun.
How do I bring my bamboo plant back to life?
This depends on what your plant care routine is. If you have a yellow bamboo plant, adjust accordingly by stopping fertilization, switching to filtered water or moving your plant to a place with less light. If your lucky bamboo has been infiltrated by pests or fungi, remove the infected area and use a (natural) pesticide, soap or rubbing alcohol depending on the plant’s ailment.
How long do bamboo plants live?
Bamboo grown in water can live about one to two years. For a longer lifespan transfer your bamboo to soil where it can live for several years. It may shed leaves, but as long as you care for it well, it will keep replenishing and growing new leaves.
Can you grow bamboo in water?
Lucky bamboo can grow in water, but for the best results, it should be transferred to soil after it grows solid roots.
How many bamboo stalks are needed for good luck?
Lucky bamboo plants with one to nine stalks are all acceptable for good luck and well wishes (except four stalks which is bad luck and should be avoided).
Is it bad luck to buy your own bamboo plant?
No, lucky bamboo is considered a token of good luck even if you purchase it yourself.
Lucky bamboo is a versatile plant that makes a great gift for anyone, because who doesn’t need some good luck every now and again? It’s a perfect gift for dads who can be notoriously difficult to shop for as well as other guys in your life, including friends, boyfriends, husbands and family members. Use the lucky bamboo plant symbolism listed above to find the perfect amount of stalks for you or a loved one.
Source: Proflowers