Chinese New Year falls on Sunday 22nd January, welcoming in the year of the Rabbit. 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 Rabbit
The Rabbit is the fourth sign in the Chinese zodiac and represents the moon. People born in the year of the Rabbit are sensitive, artistic and creative, and also very sociable; famous rabbits include David Beckham, Albert Einstein, Whitney Houston, Brad Pitt and yours truly!
If you plan to send flowers to any rabbits celebrating their birthday this year, their lucky colours are red, pink, purple and blue and as for flowers, choose lilies or antirrhinums.
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.
