The houseplant known as “lucky bamboo” is a resilient plant found in many homes and offices. Despite its common name, it is not a member of the true bamboo family but a species of tropical water lily called Dracaena sanderiana. Its use is connected to Feng Shui, an ancient Chinese system of harmonizing with the environment. In this tradition, the number of stalks in an arrangement corresponds with specific life aspirations.
The Meaning of Seven Stalks
An arrangement of seven stalks of lucky bamboo is associated with the promotion of good health and wellness. The number seven is considered auspicious in many cultures, representing concepts of togetherness and completeness. This numerical symbolism is thought to amplify the plant’s energetic properties, directing them toward a healthy environment. While other stalk counts have their own meanings, the seven-stalk arrangement remains uniquely focused on health.
This focus on health is tied to creating a balanced flow of energy, or “Chi,” within a living space. The seven stalks are believed to act as a conduit for this beneficial energy, helping to clear away stagnation that might contribute to poor health. This supports not just physical well-being but also a sense of harmony.
Ideal Placement in the Home
According to Feng Shui principles, placement is a deliberate choice to maximize the plant’s health-enhancing properties. The ideal location is in the eastern sector of a home or a specific room. In the Feng Shui Bagua map, a tool used to assess a space’s energy, the east is the area connected to Health and Family. Placing the plant here is believed to activate the positive energies associated with this life aspect.
An alternative placement is the center of the home, which relates to overall well-being. Placing the seven-stalk arrangement in a central living room or home office can help radiate its healthful energy throughout the dwelling.
Care and Maintenance
The plant is grown hydroponically, meaning in water rather than soil. It is sensitive to chemicals in tap water, such as fluoride, which can cause browning of the leaf tips. For this reason, using filtered or distilled water is recommended. The water should be changed every one to two weeks to prevent stagnation and algae growth.
The plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sun will scorch the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and burn. Too little light may cause the plant to stretch and its green color to fade. A spot near a window with a sheer curtain is an ideal location to provide sufficient but diffused light.
The stalks are held in a vase with pebbles that provide physical support. This method allows the roots to be submerged in about an inch of water. If leaves or stalks turn yellow, it can indicate too much direct sunlight or an issue with water quality. Monitoring these conditions ensures the plant remains a vibrant addition to the home.