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Happy Chinese New Year!

Writer's picture: Su WhaleSu Whale

Chinese New Year falls on Wednesday 29th January, welcoming in the year of the Snake. This is always a massive event, not just in China, but across the world, with celebrations capable of lasting up to sixteen days.


The Year of the Snake

The Snake in Chinese astrology is particularly known for its association with intelligence, intuition, and critical thinking, with people born in that year thought to possess a natural elegance and charm.


Celebrate the Chinese New Year with Meaning

The Chinese put great store on the significance of certain colours, flowers and plants and it is common practise to send gifts which include some of these to celebrate the New Year.


Chinese New Year Colours

Red – for luck, joy and happiness.

Gold – symbolising wealth and riches.


Flowers

Chrysanthemum: mentioned in Chinese history as far back as the 15th century, chrysanthemums promote happiness and vitality.



Orchids

A symbol of nobility, beauty and admiration, in particular the Cymbidium orchid which is a highly respected and well received gift.

















Cherry and plum blossom

First to bloom in spring and seen as a promise of new life.












Peonies

Previously enjoyed by emperors of China, peonies were planted in royal gardens. Every colour has significance; at New Year send yellow for luck and prosperity.








As they bloom at the same time as the start of the New Year they are also considered a symbol of luck.















Plants


Bamboo

Lucky bamboo or Dracaena sanderiana is popular in Feng Shui and represents a happy home.







Pussy willow

Decorate stems of pussy willow (Salix caprea) with red and gold decorations for luck.

















Pitcher plant

Sarracenia have one of these fascinating carnivorous plants in your home to catch and accumulate good luck and fortune.







 

Su Whale is a florist and freelance writer with over twenty-five years' experience in the floristry industry. She is the author and publisher of three best-selling books: Cut Flowers, 4th edition (2020) Cut Foliage, 2nd Edition, (2021) and Houseplants (2019), all bookshelf essentials for the professional florist.

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