In this article
Why plants appear in feng shui
Plants represent the wood element: growth, renewal and upward energy. They soften hard edges, fill empty corners and give a room something alive to look after. For many people that care is the most valuable part.
Choose healthy plants. A wilting or dead plant is seen as the opposite of what you want, and in practical terms is simply untidy. If you cannot keep it alive, a clean empty corner is better.
Money tree (pachira)
The money tree, Pachira aquatica, often has a braided trunk and glossy leaves. It is a popular gift tied to prosperity, though the plant itself does nothing for your finances. It likes bright indirect light, moderate watering and a pot with drainage.
Let the top layer of soil dry between waterings, and avoid cold draughts. It is generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, but check with your vet if your pet chews plants.
Snake plant
The snake plant, Sansevieria (now often Dracaena trifasciata), has upright, sword-like leaves. It is tough, tolerates low light and needs little water, so it suits offices and hallways. Feng shui teachers see its pointed shape as a little sharp, so place it away from where you sit.
It is mildly toxic to pets if chewed. Overwatering is the main cause of death; water every two or three weeks, less in winter.
Lucky bamboo and jade plant
Lucky bamboo is Dracaena sanderiana, not true bamboo. It grows in water or soil in low light, and stalk numbers carry meanings in Chinese culture: three, five and eight are popular; four is avoided. Change the water weekly and keep it out of direct sun. It can be toxic to cats and dogs.
The jade plant, Crassula ovata, is a succulent with round leaves, linked with money and friendship. It needs strong light and sparing watering. Do not confuse it with jade the stone, which has its own page. The plant is also toxic to pets.
Where to place them
Rooms with the most daylight suit the plants with most need. The east and south-east are linked with wood in the classical bagua, and the wealth area of the Western grid is the far left from the door; see the bagua map. These are traditional placements, not requirements.
In bedrooms use few plants; in offices one on a shelf is enough. Avoid spiky plants beside seating, and avoid crowding. Match the plant to the light, not just the symbolism.
An honest note on air and health
You will often read that plants clean indoor air. The famous research was done in sealed laboratory chambers; in a real home, ventilation does far more than any number of pots. Plants are pleasant and may improve how a room feels, but they are not a substitute for opening windows, and they do not treat any illness.
Wipe the leaves, use a well-draining pot and keep pets away from plants you are unsure about. The rest of the section on the living room and home office covers where to put them.
Questions people ask
Which feng shui plant is easiest?
The snake plant is the most forgiving: low light, little water. The jade plant is easy too with a sunny sill.
Do plants purify the air?
The claim is overstated for ordinary homes. Ventilation matters far more.
Are these plants safe for pets?
Not all. Snake plant, jade plant and lucky bamboo can be toxic; check with a vet.