AS the Chinese New Year approaches, prosperity bamboo, bonsai and the Kalanchoe genus plants are flying off the shelves as popular choices for those looking to usher in good fortune.
Known for their symbolism of growth, resilience, and prosperity, these plants have become must-haves for many households and businesses preparing for the festivities.
Green Plant Society, a renowned plant nursery-cum-florist, has reported a notable surge in plant demand as the Chinese New Year draws near.
Customers are increasingly eager to incorporate auspicious greenery, such as prosperity bamboo, bonsai, and vibrant Kalanchoe genus plants, into their festive decorations to symbolise good fortune and prosperity for the year ahead.
“Our suppliers are struggling to keep up with the orders,” shared Angelina Chang Li May, one of the business partners of Green Plant Society.
She added that the demand spike began almost immediately after the Christmas season.
“It seems people are planning earlier this year, though we are still anticipating a wave of last-minute shoppers in the days leading up to the celebration,” she told Buletin Mutiara at her outlet in Kampung Jawa Baru (near Penang Times Square) on Jan 14.
Angelina noted that the nursery has been bustling with customers seeking plants that symbolise good luck, harmony, and prosperity.
“The prosperity bamboo is especially popular because it is easy to maintain and aligns well with traditional beliefs.
“Bonsai plants, on the other hand, are adored for their intricate beauty and the sense of peace they bring into a home,” she explained.
Angelina added that, in contrast, the ‘pot of gold’ plant, which is the Euodia genus shrub, which was once a Chinese New Year staple, has seen a noticeable decline in popularity.
“This is a shifting preference among the younger generation,” she said.
Despite the increase in early orders, Angelina emphasised the importance of timely shopping.
“We encourage customers to place their orders soon to avoid disappointment, as stocks are running out quickly. This is especially true for the prosperity bamboo, which has been in exceptionally high demand,” she said, highlighting the nursery’s efforts to cater to the festive season’s growing green trend.
Outlet manager Chang Chun Lim said another popular plant, the pussy willow, is a widely preferred plant that symbolises not only career growth but also heralds incoming prosperity.
“Pussy willows have emerged as a favourite choice among corporate companies preparing for Chinese New Year celebrations.
“Known for their elegant appearance and symbolic meaning of growth and prosperity, these tall, slender plants are commonly used to adorn office lobbies, reception areas, and event spaces.
“The appeal of pussy willows lies in their ability to create a grand yet minimalist look, making them ideal for professional settings. Corporate clients appreciate how pussy willows can instantly transform a space, giving it a festive yet classy vibe,” Chun Lim said.
For more information, visit https://www.greenplantsociety.com/pages/fitc-florist-in-the-city
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Alissala Thian