Orchids and Feng Shui
Do you wonder why we see phalaenopsis being placed in strategic positions in homes and offices, even by non-orchid fanciers? Well it has to do with the Chinese belief in Feng Shui where certain elements that bring luck and good fortune are placed strategically in harmony with buildings and architectural designs.
But what has that to do with phalaenopsis? Well the Chinese name for phal is 'butterfly ( or moth ) flower, and in Cantonese the first syllable for this sounds like 'Fu' meaning wealth and riches. So well-placed phal, particularly the reds, pinks, and yellows would bring good fortune.
In Hong Kong where Feng Shui governs every aspect of life and especially in business, phalaenopsis are in great demand esp during the Chinese New Year.Great quantities of phals are produced in South China and Taiwan for the New Year market.Last year I was in Hong Kong and was intrigued by the large amount of phals that were on sale for the New Year.
Other symbols of good fortune for the New Year are mandarin oranges and kumquats( sounds like 'gold' in Chinese) and also pussy willows and pink peach blossoms( signifying spring and new growth and hope).
I'm posting some pics of phals and and kumquats for sale by street vendors and florists.
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