Under the Solano Sun
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Plants for the Chinese New Year

Blog by Nancy Forrest

Chinese New Year 2026 starts on February 17, ushering in the Year of the Fire Horse. The 16-day celebration ends with the Lantern Festival on March 3. Flowers and plants are important symbols during these festivities. Just as the Chinese proverb says, – Blossomed flowers bring wealth and prosperity. Here is a valuable list of lucky plants and flowers for your reference. 

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vase with pussywillow twigs
photo by Nancy Forrest
  1. Lucky Bamboo – Growth and Strength
  2. Tangerine Tree / Kumquat Plant – Wealth and Prosperity
  3. Pussy Willow – Prosper and Abundance
  4. Orchid – Fertility and Elegance
  5. Jade Plant – Symbol of Money
  6. Money Plant – Wealth and Good Fortune
  7. Chrysanthemums – Happiness
  8. Peony – Peace and Richness

The two plants that I love and own are the Jade Plant and the Pussy Willow.  The Jade plant (Crassula ovata), with its coin-like leaves, represents prosperity, wealth, and fortune, and is used in feng shui to attract financial energy. It's easy to care for due to its succulent nature.

The Pussy Willow (Salicaceae) is popular around Chinese New Year for its soft catkins, symbolizing good fortune and happiness. It lasts for a long time without wilting and can be paired with red decorations to enhance the festive atmosphere.

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