Complete Guide to Selecting Auspicious Flowers and Plants for the Lunar New Year
During the Lunar New Year, certain flowers and plants are highly sought after for their auspicious symbolism. Choosing the right plants not only beautifies your home but also brings good luck, wealth, and happiness for the new year. This guide covers all the traditional and modern popular Lunar New Year plants.
Kumquat tree (Kumquat tree)
Symbolic meaning Wealth, good fortune, and prosperity. In Cantonese, "kumquat" sounds like "good luck," making it a popular New Year's plant.
Key points for purchasing Seek trees with abundant fruit (at least 30-100), bright orange-gold in color, and evenly distributed. Leaves should be dark green and glossy, without yellowing or fallen leaves. Fruits should be firm and firmly attached. The crown should be rounded and symmetrical, with branches evenly distributed.
Size selection Small desktop models are 30-60 cm in diameter, medium floor-standing models are 90-120 cm in diameter, and large display models are 150 cm and above.
Placement Place prominent locations such as the main entrance, living room, and shop entrance to welcome wealth.
Maintenance Tips It needs bright light, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water it every 2-3 days. Avoid vents from heating systems and drafts.
Price range Medium-sized trees: $50-100; high-quality large trees: $150-400 and above.
orchid
Symbolic meaningNobility, elegance, prosperity, and happiness. Different varieties have specific meanings.
蕙蘭(Cymbidium)
Meaning Prosperity and flourishing are the most traditional symbols of the New Year, represented by orchids.
Key points for purchasing Choose plants with 8-12 flowers per stem. The flowers should be vibrant and symmetrical, a mix of blooming flowers and tightly packed buds. Yellow and red are considered auspicious. The leaves should be firm and glossy, and the roots should be silvery-green or bright green.
advantage It has a long flowering period (6-12 weeks), is cold-resistant, and its upright growth symbolizes rising fortune.
Phalaenopsis orchid
Meaning Happiness, a new beginning.
Key points for purchasing Choose 2-3 flower stalks, each with 6-10 flowers. Pink symbolizes romance, white represents purity, and red brings good luck. The flowers should be free of brown spots or withering.
advantage Elegant drape, relatively easy to maintain, suitable for beginners.
Dendrobium
MeaningWisdom and beauty.
Key points for purchasing Seek out plants with numerous small flowers on tall stems to provide a dramatic vertical display.
Maintenance Tips All orchids require bright indirect light, a temperature of 15-24°C, and moderate watering. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Price range Standard Phalaenopsis orchids: $30-80; premium Cymbidium orchids: $80-200 and above.
Peach blossoms
Symbolic meaningLove, romance, good fortune, new life. The blooming of peach blossoms heralds the arrival of spring and a new beginning.
Key points for purchasingChoose branches with plump buds and some flowers just beginning to bloom. The branches should be flexible and not dry. Ideally, peach branches should have a mix of buds, half-open, and fully bloomed flowers to ensure continuous flowering throughout the holiday season. Branches 60-120 cm in length are best for flower arrangements.
Color selectionPink is the most traditional color, symbolizing love and romance. Deep red represents passion. White peach blossoms are less common but represent purity.
Timing of purchase Purchase 1-2 weeks before the New Year; purchasing too early will cause the flowers to wither prematurely.
Maintenance Tips Place in clean water and change the water every 2-3 days. Keep in a cool, bright location, avoiding direct sunlight. Trim the base of the branches appropriately to promote water absorption.
Cultural customs It is especially popular in Guangdong and Hong Kong for unmarried people to display peach blossoms to attract romantic opportunities.
Price range Single branch: $10-30; Bundle or branch: $50-150.
Silver willow (water willow)
Symbolic meaning The word "silver" is a homophone for "treasure," symbolizing wealth. The fuzzy silver buds represent a continuous flow of wealth.
Key points for purchasing Choose branches with plump, evenly distributed silver flower buds. The buds should be tightly attached and bright silver-gray in color. The branches should be straight and flexible, with a length of 60-90 cm being most common. Avoid branches with yellowing or fallen flower buds.
Decoration Techniques It is often paired with gold decorations, red ropes, or auspicious ornaments. It can be placed in a vase for dry or water storage.
advantage Extremely easy to maintain, it can last from several months to several years. Requires no special care, making it suitable for busy families.
Maintenance Tips It can be kept dry (without water) or in water. If kept in water, maintain a small amount of clean water. Place it in a well-ventilated and dry place to prevent mold growth.
Price range A bunch (5-10 stems) costs $15-40.
daffodils
Symbolic meaning Good luck, prosperity, and auspiciousness. Known as "New Year's Flower," it is especially popular in the Minnan and Chaozhou regions.
Key points for purchasing Choose bulbs that are firm, plump, and free from softness, rot, or mold. The bulbs should be heavy and compact. If buying bulbs that have already sprouted, choose those with healthy, green tips that are not yellowed. Flower buds should be plump.
Planting methods It can be grown hydroponically or in soil. Hydroponics is more popular; place the bulbs in a shallow dish and add water up to the bottom of the bulbs.
Flowering control Depending on the time of purchase and temperature, daffodils take 2-4 weeks to bloom. Calculate in advance to ensure they bloom during the New Year period. Warm environments promote blooming, while cool environments delay it.
Maintenance Tips It needs bright light, daily water changes, and should be kept cool (15-20°C). After flowering, placing it in a cool place will prolong the flowering period.
Cultural significance It is especially popular in Fujian and the Chaoshan region of Guangdong, symbolizing reunion and good fortune.
Price range Single bulb: $5-15; Potted bulb with sprouts: $20-50.
Gladiolus
Symbolic meaningLongevity, good fortune, and continuous advancement. The vertical inflorescence symbolizes rising career and fortune.
Key points for purchasing Choose flowers with straight, sturdy stems and neatly arranged buds from bottom to top. The lower flowers should be open, while the upper part should have tightly packed buds. The stems should be 60-90 cm long. Red, pink, yellow, and orange are considered the most auspicious colors.
advantage Its tall appearance makes it suitable for large displays, and its flowering period is long (1-2 weeks).
Maintenance Tips Insert into deep water, change the water daily and trim the stem. Support the plant to prevent it from falling over. Place in a cool, bright location.
Placement suggestions Suitable for tall vases, placed in the living room or entryway to showcase their height.
Price range Single stem $5-12, bunch (10 stems) $40-80.
chrysanthemum
Symbolic meaning Longevity, nobility, and good fortune are all associated with chrysanthemums. Yellow chrysanthemums especially symbolize wealth and prosperity.
Key points for purchasing Choose plants with full, brightly colored flowers, free from wilting or brown spots. Leaves should be green and healthy. Potted chrysanthemums should have multiple flowers and buds to ensure continuous blooming.
Color selection:
Yellow: Wealth, prosperity (most popular)
Red: Good luck, celebration
Pink: happiness, harmony
White: purity, sincerity
Precautions Avoid using pure white chrysanthemums for celebratory occasions, as they are also used for funerals. Choose chrysanthemums in colored or mixed colors.
Maintenance Tips It needs plenty of light, the soil needs to be kept moist, and withered flowers need to be removed to encourage new blooms.
Price range Potted plants: $15-40; cut bouquets: $20-50.
Lucky bamboo (fortune bamboo)
Symbolic meaning Wealth, good fortune, and peace. The number of branches has different meanings: 3 branches represent happiness, 5 branches represent the five blessings, 6 branches represent success, 8 branches represent wealth, and 9 branches represent longevity.
Key points for purchasing Choose plants with straight, bright green stems, free of yellow leaves or brown spots. Leaves should be upright and glossy. If hydroponically grown, roots should be healthy, white or pale yellow, and free of rot. Shaped bamboo (spiral, woven) should have a complete shape.
Container selection It is usually paired with a red or gold vase to add a festive atmosphere. A transparent container allows you to observe the health of the roots.
advantage Extremely easy to care for, can live for many years, suitable for all seasons, not just the New Year.
Maintenance Tips When hydroponically growing, change the water weekly, ensuring the water level covers the roots. Indirect light is required. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorching. A small amount of liquid fertilizer can be added.
Price range 3-5 stalks $10-25, shaped bamboo $30-80.
peony
Symbolic meaningIt symbolizes wealth, prosperity, and nobility. Known as the "King of Flowers," it represents the highest level of wealth and status.
Key points for purchasing Real peonies are rarely seen during the New Year period, as their natural blooming season is in spring. Most are forced-blooming or artificial peonies. If buying forced-blooming peonies, choose plants with full, dark-colored buds. The flowers should be layered and full.
Color selection:
Red: The most auspicious color, representing prosperity.
Pink: romantic, elegant
Yellow: Wealth, Royal Style
Alternative options Because real peonies are rare and expensive, many people choose high-quality silk or paper peonies for decoration.
Maintenance Tips Forcing peonies to bloom requires a cool environment (12-18°C), ample sunlight, and moderate watering.
Price range Forced flowering potted plants: $80-200 and above; cut flowers (rare): $50-100.
lily
Symbolic meaning May your marriage be blessed with happiness, harmony, and purity. Especially suitable for newlyweds or families who desire a harmonious home.
Key points for purchasing Choose plants with tightly packed flower buds and some flowers just beginning to open. The flowers should be free of brown spots or withering. The leaves should be green and healthy. Avoid plants with excessive pollen that are already fully open, as these have a shorter lifespan.
Color selection:
Pink: sweet, romantic
Yellow: Happiness, wealth
Orange: Passion, Prosperity
White: purity, peace
Precautions The fragrance of lilies is strong and may be too overpowering for some people. Removing the anthers (pollen) will reduce the fragrance and prevent pollen from staining clothing.
Maintenance Tips Submerge in deep water and change the water every two days. Place in a cool, bright location, avoiding direct sunlight.
Price range Cut bouquets: $30-60; Potted plants: $40-80.
Kumquat (Four Seasons Kumquat)
Symbolic meaning Similar to kumquats, it symbolizes good fortune and great luck.
Difference from kumquat The kumquat is larger and more orange-red in color, while the mandarin orange is smaller and golden yellow. They have similar meanings but different appearances.
Key points for purchasing Choose trees with abundant fruit (more than 20), a bright orange-red color, and evenly distributed. The fruit should be firm, and the leaves should be lush and green. The tree shape should be round and full.
Maintenance Tips Similar to kumquat care, it needs bright light, moist soil, and should be protected from waterlogging.
Price range Small: $30-60; Medium to large: $80-200.
tulip
Symbolic meaning Modern New Year flowers symbolize beauty, blessings, and eternal love. Although not a traditional Chinese flower, they are becoming increasingly popular due to their vibrant colors and elegant appearance.
Key points for purchasing Choose plants with firm, brightly colored buds and sturdy stems. Leaves should be green and not yellowed. Potted tulips should have several buds about to open.
Color selection:
Red: Passion, Good Luck
Yellow: happiness, sunshine
Pink: happiness, gentleness
Purple: Noble, mysterious
Maintenance Tips It requires a cool environment (15-18°C) and sufficient but indirect sunlight. Keep the soil moist. Place the cut flowers in cool water and change the water daily.
Price range Cut bouquets: $25-50; Potted plants: $30-70.
Money Tree (Malabar Chestnut)
Symbolic meaning It brings good fortune and prosperity to businesses. It is especially popular with merchants and offices.
Key points for purchasing Choose plants with neatly woven trunks (if woven), lush green foliage, and no yellowing or fallen leaves. The trunk should be sturdy, producing a solid sound when lightly tapped. The roots should be healthy and show no signs of rot.
Size selection Desktop type: 30-60 cm, floor type: 90-180 cm, large display type: 200 cm and above.
advantage Suitable for year-round cultivation, not just during the New Year. Easy to care for, it can live for many years and become a family heirloom.
Maintenance Tips It requires bright indirect light, tolerates shade but grows slowly. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch, avoiding overwatering which can cause root rot. Fertilize once a month.
Placement: Living room corner, office, shop entrance.
Price range Small: $20-50; Medium: $60-150; Large: $200-500 and above.
plum bossom
Symbolic meaning Resilience, hope, nobility, and welcoming spring. Plum blossoms bloom in winter, symbolizing perseverance and the arrival of spring.
Key points for purchasing Choose plants with sturdy, old-fashioned branches, full buds, and some flowers just beginning to open. Plum blossoms come in red, white, and pink varieties. The branches should have natural curves to showcase their rustic beauty.
Color selection:
Red plum blossoms: symbolizing joy and good fortune.
Pink plum blossoms: gentle and romantic
White plum: purity, elegance
Maintenance Tips It needs a cool environment to continue blooming. Place it in water and keep it in a cool, bright place. Potted plum blossoms need a cool outdoor environment.
Cultural significance In Chinese culture, it is known as one of the "Four Gentlemen" along with orchid, bamboo, and chrysanthemum, and is deeply loved by scholars and literati.
Price range: Cuttings $30-80, Bonsai $100-300+.
Crabapple blossoms
Symbolic meaning The phrase "a house full of wealth and honor" is a homophone for "hall" in Chinese, symbolizing a house full of wealth and honor.
Key points for purchasing Choose plants with abundant, bright pink or red flowers and healthy leaves. The flower buds should be plump, a mix of open flowers and unopened buds.
variety The main species include Malus spectabilis, Malus halliana, and Chaenomeles speciosa. During the New Year, potted Begonia semperflorens or Begonia davidii are commonly seen.
Maintenance Tips It needs bright light and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The optimal temperature is 18-25°C.
Price range Potted plants: $25-80.
Cyclamen (Rabbit Flower)
Symbolic meaning It symbolizes welcoming guests and hospitality. Suitable for placement in the entryway to greet visitors.
Key points for purchasing Choose plants with abundant, brightly colored flowers and heart-shaped, emerald-green leaves. The bulb should be firm and slightly protruding from the surface of the pot. The flower stalk should stand upright without falling over.
Color selection Red, pink, and magenta are the most popular colors, while white is also elegant.
Maintenance Tips It requires a cool environment (15-20°C) and bright indirect light. When watering, avoid getting water on the bulb and the center of the leaves; watering from the bottom of the pot is best.
Price range: $20-50。
Pansy (Butterfly Flower)
Symbolic meaning Joy, longing, contemplation. Vibrant colors add to the festive atmosphere of the New Year.
Key points for purchasing Choose a potted plant with abundant, brightly colored flowers and a compact growth habit. The flowers should be free of brown spots and continuously produce new buds.
advantage Affordable price, rich colors, suitable for combination potted plants or balcony decoration.
Maintenance Tips It needs plenty of sunlight, the soil should be kept moist, and dead flowers should be removed regularly to promote flowering.
Price range Small potted plants: $8-15; Combined potted plants: $25-50.
Combination and pairing suggestions
Traditional combination:
Kumquat tree + daffodil + pussy willow = a complete combination of wealth and good fortune.
Orchid + Lucky Bamboo = A combination of elegance and wealth
Peach blossoms + plum blossoms = the breath of spring and a romantic atmosphere
Color matching:
The main colors are red, gold, and yellow, symbolizing joy and wealth.
Adding pink enhances the warmth and romance.
Adding white or green accents balances the visual effect.
Space configuration:
Entrance hall: Kumquat tree, money tree, and cyclamen welcome wealth and guests.
Living room: Large orchids, peach blossoms, and peonies showcase grandeur.
Restaurant: Chrysanthemums and lilies symbolize reunion and harmony.
Bedroom: Daffodils and tulips create a romantic atmosphere
Study: Lucky bamboo and plum blossoms exude an elegant atmosphere
Summary of purchase timing
3-4 weeks in advanceOrder rare or large plants (forcibly blooming peonies, large kumquat trees).
2-3 weeks in advancePurchase plants that take time to bloom (daffodil bulbs, orchids).
1-2 weeks in advancePurchase most flowers and plants (peach blossoms, chrysanthemums, lilies).
A few days before the New YearPurchase cut flowers and flowers that wilt easily.
General purchasing principles
Health First Regardless of the type of plant, prioritize those with healthy leaves, free from pests and diseases, and with well-developed root systems.
Flower buds and full bloom coexist. Choose plants that have both blooming flowers and unopened buds to ensure they continue to bloom throughout the holiday season.
Bright colors New Year plants should have bright and saturated colors, avoiding dull or yellowish hues.
Reputable Merchant Purchase from professional nurseries, well-known florists, or reputable markets.
Suitable environment Consider the light, temperature, and space in your home when choosing plants.
Cultural suitability Understand the cultural meanings of plants to avoid making unlucky choices.
General maintenance tips
Light Most New Year plants need bright indirect light and should be protected from strong direct sunlight.
temperature Maintain a room temperature of 15-25°C and avoid extreme temperature changes.
Watering Keep the soil moderately moist, avoiding waterlogging or excessive dryness.
ventilation Good ventilation helps prevent pests and diseases, but avoid strong winds blowing directly on the soil.
clean Regularly remove dead leaves and flowers to keep plants clean and beautiful.
Budget planning recommendations
Basic configuration ($100-200):
Medium-sized kumquat or kumquat tree ($60-80)
Potted Phalaenopsis orchids or chrysanthemums ($30-40)
Silver willow or lucky bamboo ($20-30)
Cut flowers (peach blossoms or gladiolus) ($20-30)
Standard configuration ($300-500):
Large Golden Bell Tree ($120-180)
Premium Cymbidium orchids ($80-120)
Peach or plum blossom branches ($50-80)
Combination of silver willow, lucky bamboo, and daffodils ($50-80)
Chrysanthemums or lilies ($30-40)
Luxury configuration ($800 and above):
Extra-large kumquat tree or money tree ($300-500)
Multiple high-quality orchids ($200-300)
Forced-blooming peonies or rare flowers ($100-200)
Various cut flower and potted plant combinations ($200-300)
Environmental and sustainability considerations
Choose locally grown plants to reduce your carbon footprint.
Choose reusable flower pots
Properly care for plants after the holidays to prolong their lifespan.
Consider perennial plants such as money trees and lucky bamboo as long-term investments.
Avoid excessive packaging and disposable decorations
Final reminder
Flowers and plants for the Lunar New Year are not merely decorations; they also embody good wishes and cultural heritage for the coming year. When choosing plants, consider personal preferences, family needs, and cultural significance to create a beautiful and auspicious New Year atmosphere. Most importantly, welcome the New Year with joy and hope; the vitality of plants will bring continuous good fortune and happiness to your home.
Wishing you a Happy New Year, all the best, and prosperity!
