10 Feng Shui Plants That Bring Positive Energy into Your Home

Fen Shui, the Chinese art and science of geomancy (earth divination), is a practice that uses the forces of energy to create balance and harmony in our environment. Practitioners of Feng Shui believe in the power of nature to ground us and bring us to natural alignment with the ‘chi’ (also called ‘Qi’), or vital energy of life.

One of the easiest ways to welcome positive ‘chi’ into our homes and allow its vibrancy and goodness to flow through our lives, is to use Feng Shui plants. Placing these plants with intent in the right corners of our home can help to dispel negativity and create an abundance of positive forces. Whether you’re seeking love, good health or riches, there’s a Feng Shui plant that can help you get there!

Read on for the ultimate guide to choosing plants based on Feng Shui. Get care tips, understand which plant is best for each zone, and learn how to turn your life around with the positive energy of Feng Shui plants!

Understanding Feng Shui and Its Principles

The literal translation of Feng Shui is ‘wind and water’, and this ancient Chinese philosophy is all about creating harmonious environments through the arrangement of space. It goes beyond just simple interior design and aesthetic homes; it’s a holistic approach to cultivating positive energy flow (‘chi’) within your living and working spaces, and this ultimately impacts your well-being.

There are many homeowners who have turned around their lives by believing in this school of thought. If you would like to align your home interior in accordance with Feng Shui, here are the key principles you should follow:

• The Bagua Map: This octagonal map represents eight different areas of life: career, relationships, health, wealth, fame, knowledge, helpful people, and family. When overlaid on a floor plan, it helps identify areas in your home that correspond to specific aspects of your life.
• The Five Elements: Wood, fire, earth, metal, and water are the five elements believed to influence the energy flow. By incorporating these elements strategically in your space, you can enhance specific areas of your life.
• Yin and Yang: This concept represents the balance between opposing forces – light and dark, active and passive, masculine and feminine. Feng Shui strives to create a balance of yin and yang energies within a space for harmony and well-being.
• The Commanding Position: This refers to the ideal placement of furniture, particularly in areas like bedrooms and offices. The commanding position allows you to see the doorway while seated or resting, fostering a sense of security and control.
• Decluttering: Stagnant energy is believed to accumulate in cluttered spaces. Decluttering your home is a fundamental principle in Feng Shui, allowing the ‘chi’ to flow freely and promoting a sense of peace and clarity.

While this practice lays down rules to be followed, they are flexible. Everything is in the mind, and the ultimate goal is to create a space that feels harmonious and supportive for you.

Feng Shui Plants for Bringing Positive Energy

Feng Shui and plants go hand in hand.  Plants are believed to be natural energy enhancers, and placing them in the right positions can cultivate positive energy in your home. Plants are living décor that breathe in freshness into your home, regulate humidity and oxygen and clear the indoor air of toxins.

Feng Shui plants are said to increase the natural life force in any space, and there are specific plants that will positively turn around your wealth, love, health and more! You have everything to gain and nothing to lose by filling your indoor spaces with carefully chosen plants that are aligned with Feng Shui principles.

Here’s how you can do just that!

Jade Plant

The Jade plant (Crassula Ovata), with its plump and oval green leaves, symbolises wealth in China, and is also called the money plant, or lucky plant. A healthy Jade plant with new growth is seen as an indication of flourishing finances and positive energy flow. 

Where to Place?

• Southeast corner: This is the wealth and prosperity zone in Feng Shui. Placing a Jade plant here is said to attract financial abundance and success.
• East corner: The East corner is associated with health, family, and beginnings. A Jade plant in this area is believed to promote good health, harmony in relationships, and new opportunities.
• Living Room: Jade plants placed near seating areas in the living room are said to encourage lively conversation and positive interaction.
• Office: A Jade plant on your desk or in your office is believed to promote career success and good business fortune.

Care Tips

• Lighting: Jade plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid the harsh afternoon sun which can scorch the leaves.
• Watering: Water your Jade Plant thoroughly when the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
• Soil: Jade Plants thrive in well-draining soil. A cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
• Pruning: Jade Plants can be pruned to maintain their shape and encourage bushier growth. Simply snip off leggy stems or unwanted branches using sharp pruners.

Lucky Bamboo Plant 

The Lucky Bamboo Plant (Dracaena Sanderiana) isn’t a true bamboo but is a popular choice for its symbolic meaning and ease of care in Feng Shui. The number of stalks holds particular meaning, with 8 stalks symbolising growth and abundance, 7 attracting knowledge and spiritual growth, 6 stalks enhancing good luck and fortune, and 5 stalks representing wealth and health. 4 stalks are to be avoided as this is associated with illness. 3,2, and 1 also have positive connotations.

Where to Place?

• Southeast Corner: A thriving Lucky Bamboo plant with three or eight stalks placed here is believed to attract wealth and abundance.
• East Corner: A Lucky Bamboo plant with two or five stalks in the east corner is said to promote good health and harmony within the family.
• Work Desk: A north-facing desk is ideal for a Lucky Bamboo plant. It’s believed to enhance focus, clarity, and career success.

Care tips:

• Water: Use filtered or bottled water at room temperature. Avoid tap water containing harsh chemicals. Change the water every 7-10 days to prevent mineral buildup.
• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight is ideal. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
• Placement: Don’t place your Lucky Bamboo plant directly in the path of strong air conditioning or heating vents.

Monstera Plant

The Monstera Deliciosa, also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant due to its characteristic split leaves, is a popular houseplant with a unique aesthetic and positive Feng Shui associations. The Monstera stands for growth, new beginnings, and increased life force. Its lush, split leaves represent expansion and opportunities. 

Where to Place?

• Southeast Corner: A large, leafy Monstera positioned here is said to attract abundance and financial success.
• East Corner: A Monstera in the east corner symbolises growth within the family and promotes a sense of well-being.
• Living Room: A Monstera placed near seating areas is believed to encourage lively conversation and connection.
• Entryway: Placed near the entrance, it is said to welcome positive energy and opportunities into your home.

Care tips:

• Light: Monstera thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
• Watering: Water your Monstera when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry out partially between waterings.
• Humidity: Monstera enjoys moderate to high humidity. You can increase humidity by grouping plants together, using a humidifier, or placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
• Soil: Monstera prefers a well-draining potting mix. A mixture of potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark can be a good option.

Rubber Tree Plant

The Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica), known for its large, glossy leaves, is a popular choice for homes and offices. This plant holds special significance in Feng Shui, promoting stability, growth, and positive energy flow. It is believed to bring positive energy and a sense of grounding to a space.

Where to Place?

• Northeast Corner: The Northeast corner is associated with the Earth element, which complements the Wood element of the rubber plant. Placing it here is said to enhance stability, learning, and personal growth.
• Southwest Corner: While not the most common recommendation, a healthy rubber plant in the Southwest corner (Fire element) can create a harmonious balance. Make sure to avoid overcrowding this area, and choose a smaller plant rather than a large one.
• Living Areas: This plant can be placed near seating areas to foster good relationships.

Care Tips:

• Light: Rubber plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
• Watering: Water your rubber plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry out partially between waterings.
• Humidity: Moderate humidity is ideal. You can increase humidity by grouping plants together, using a humidifier, or placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix is essential, and you can add potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark for aeration.

White Bird of Paradise Plant

The White Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia Nicolai), with its majestic white and blue flowers and large, graceful leaves, is a stunning addition to any home. Its unique white flowers represent purity, new beginnings, and a sense of renewal. Their resemblance to birds in flight is seen as a symbol of striving for success and achieving goals.

Where to Place?

• East Corner: The East corner is associated with the Wood element, which complements the potential Air and Water elements of the White Bird of Paradise. Placing it here is said to promote good health, harmony in relationships, and a sense of renewal within the family.
• North Corner: The North corner is governed by the Water element. The White Bird of Paradise, with its potential Water element connection, can create a balanced and harmonious placement here. It’s believed to enhance career prospects and attract new opportunities.
• Living Areas: A White Bird of Paradise placed near seating areas is said to encourage and inspire the family.

Care tips:

• Light: White Bird of Paradise thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves.
• Watering: Water your plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rot, so let the soil dry out partially between waterings.
• Humidity: Moderate to high humidity is ideal. You can increase humidity by grouping plants together, using a humidifier, or placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.

Anthurium Clarinervium

With its velvety, dark green, heart-shaped leaves and striking white veins, the Anthurium Clarinervium, is a gorgeous houseplant. In Feng Shui, this Anthurium variety holds a special place, symbolising passion, growth, and positive energy. The heart-shaped leaves are believed to enhance romantic energy and connection within a space.

Where to Place?

• Southwest Corner: The Southwest corner is governed by the Fire element, which is fuelled by the Wood element of the Anthurium Clarinervium. Placing it here is said to enhance romantic love, passion, and a sense of connection within your relationships.
• East Corner: The East corner is associated with the Wood element. Keeping your plant here creates harmony and promotes good health, growth within the family, and a sense of renewal.

Care Tips:

• Light: This Anthurium loves bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the leaves.
• Watering: Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry out partially between waterings.
• Humidity: High humidity is ideal. You can increase humidity by grouping plants together, using a humidifier, or placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.

Snake Plant

The Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata), also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, is a popular houseplant prized for its ease of care, and air-purifying qualities. In Feng Shui, its upright, sword-like leaves are believed to offer symbolic protection against negative energy.

Where to Place?

• Entranceway: A snake plant placed near your entrance will deflect negative energy and create a welcoming atmosphere.
• South Corner: The South corner is governed by the Fire element. A Snake Plant here is believed to enhance your reputation, attract recognition, and fuel your passion for success.
• East Corner: If kept in the East corner (Wood element), it can create a balancing effect, and will promote growth and well-being within the family.

Care Tips:

• Light: Snake plants tolerate a wide range of light conditions, from bright, indirect sunlight to moderate shade. They don’t do well in very low light.
• Watering: Water your snake plant sparingly. Overwatering is a common threat. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Less is more with this succulent plant.
• Soil: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix is ideal.

String of Hearts Plants

The String of Hearts plant (Ceropegia woodii), has cascading vines adorned with heart-shaped leaves. The cascading, trailing nature of the String of Hearts is seen as a symbol of overflowing joy and positive energy. 

Where to Place?

• Southwest Corner: The Southwest corner is governed by the Fire element, which is fuelled by the Wood element of the String of Hearts. Placing it here is said to enhance romantic love, passion, and a sense of connection within your relationships.
• East Corner: The East corner is associated with the Wood element, creating a harmonious placement for the String of Hearts. It’s believed to promote good health, harmony within the family, and a sense of renewal.
• Bedroom: A String of Hearts hanging near a window or placed on a high shelf in a bedroom is said to promote more restful sleep.

Care Tips:

• Light: This plant likes bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
• Watering: Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry out partially between waterings.
• Humidity: Moderate humidity is ideal. You can increase humidity by grouping plants together, using a humidifier, or placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix, mixed with potting soil, perlite or orchid bark is a good option.

Peace Lily

The Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum), with its graceful white flowers and air-purifying properties, is a popular houseplant that is valued in Feng Shui. Its graceful white flowers and serene presence are believed to promote feelings of peace, harmony, and tranquillity within a space.

Where to Place?

• East Corner: The East corner is governed by the Wood element, which is nourished by the Water element of the Peace Lily. Placing it here is said to enhance good health, harmony within the family, and a sense of new beginnings.
• North Corner: The North corner is associated with the Water element. A Peace Lily here can create a balanced and harmonious placement. It’s believed to promote a sense of calm and focus, leading to new opportunities and career growth.
• Bathroom: The Peace Lily thrives in humid environments, making it a suitable choice for bathrooms. Its calming presence is said to promote relaxation and purification in this space.

Care Tips: 

• Light: Peace Lilies grow well in medium to low light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
• Watering: Water your Peace Lily when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. The plant will often droop slightly when thirsty, indicating its need for water.
• Humidity: Moderate to high humidity is ideal. You can increase humidity by grouping plants together, using a humidifier, or placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix is essential. The soil should be loose and never hard to touch.

Philodendron Green

Philodendron Green is a general term used for Philodendrons with green foliage, such as the Philodendron Selloum or the Philodendron Oxycardium. According to Feng Shui principles, these plants are considered beneficial due to their lush green foliage. The round or oval shapes of the leaves are symbols of wealth and abundance.

Where to Place?

• North Facing: The North direction relates to the water element and career growth. Placing your Philodendron Green here can be especially beneficial if your career goals are a focus.
• East or Southeast: The Bagua map, a tool in Feng Shui, associates these areas with wealth and physical health, respectively, so placing your plant here will enhance these qualities.

Care Tips:

• • Light: Philodendrons thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. 
  • Watering: Philodendrons prefer consistently moist soil, but not soggy.
• Humidity: These plants appreciate moderate humidity levels, similar to what they’d experience in their tropical origins. Place your Philodendron on a tray filled with pebbles and water.
• Soil: A well-draining potting mix is crucial for Philodendrons. A good option is a commercial potting mix labelled for indoor plants.

Ready to Go Green?

We hope this guide has answered all your questions about Feng Shui plants! If you’d like more in-depth advice on any aspect of home décor, or need help getting things done, visit our website or drop into any of the HomeLane Experience Centres. We’re always happy to help make your home décor dreams come true!

FAQs

1. Are there any Feng Shui plants I should avoid?

While Feng Shui emphasises thriving, healthy plants, some are less ideal and should be avoided.

• Spiky or thorny plants: These represent negative energy (‘sha chi’) and can disrupt harmony in your home. Cacti are a common example, as their spiky and sharp leaves are said to create tension and disrupt the peaceful flow of energy.
• Dead or dying plants: Any plants that aren’t thriving represent stagnant energy, which can leave you feeling sluggish and unmotivated! Keep your plants healthy for positive vibes. Dust them, water them, and give them all the TLC they need to grow well.
• Artificial plants: While artificial plants are low-maintenance, they obviously lack the living energy that Feng Shui aims to cultivate. Real plants are believed to actively purify the air and enhance the energy flow within your home.

2. Where should I place Feng Shui plants in my home?

Living Areas: The placement of plants in your living areas can encourage interaction and connection. Placing a vibrant plant near a seating area is said to create a more inviting atmosphere and spark lively conversation.

Wealth Areas: The Southeast corner of your home is considered the wealth and prosperity zone in Feng Shui. Here, lush, leafy plants are ideal. They symbolise growth and abundance, attracting positive energy related to financial security. 

Love Areas: The Southwest corner of your home is believed to govern love and relationships. To enhance this area, consider flowering plants. Their vibrant colours and delicate blooms are said to promote romantic energy and strengthen relationships. 

3. How do I choose the right Feng Shui plant for my home?

Feng Shui recognises five elements: wood, water, fire, earth, and metal. Each element has corresponding characteristics and is believed to influence different aspects of life. The best way to choose plants is to do a little research on the element associated with the area you want to improve, and choose a plant that represents that element.

• Wood Element: Represents growth and new beginnings. Choose plants like Snake Plants or Spider Plants for a fresh start.
• Water Element: Symbolises calmness and tranquillity. Peace Lilies or ferns are good water element plants.
• Fire Element: Represents passion and activity. Consider a red Bromeliad or a Croton plant for a fiery boost.
• Earth Element: Associated with stability and grounding. A Chinese Money Plant (Pachira Aquatica) or a Jade Plant are earth element options.
• Metal Element: Represents precision and focus. Place your plants in round metallic containers.

Considering care needs: Be honest about your lifestyle! If you travel frequently or have a busy schedule, a low-maintenance plant like a Snake Plant might be a better choice than a high-maintenance orchid.

In the end, go with your gut. While Feng Shui principles offer valuable guidance, ultimately choose a plant that brings you joy and resonates with you. A plant you love and care for will naturally enhance the energy in your home.

4. Are there any Feng Shui plants that are particularly suitable for bedrooms?

Your bedroom is a space where you need to zone down and get a peaceful night’s rest; refreshing and restoring your energy for the next day. As such, there are a number of Feng Shui plants that are particularly well suited to do just this!

• Snake Plant: This plant purifies the indoor air and promotes good sleep with its calming presence.
• Peace Lily: Known for filtering toxins and fostering tranquillity, the peace lily is perfect for relaxation.
• Lavender: Its soothing scent is a natural sleep aid, creating a calming atmosphere.
• Spider Plant: Easy to care for, the spider plant removes air pollutants, ensuring deep and restful sleep.