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The Red-Leafed Sage: Unveiling the Significance, Benefits, and Cultivation of this Majestic Plant

The Red-leaved Poinsettia, a member of the Euphorbiaceae family, is a stunning plant native to Africa. Also known as the 'Doctor-bird Flower', this vibrant plant is believed to bring good fortune to its owners. With its bright red leaves and unique appearance, it's no wonder that this plant has become a symbol of prosperity and joy.

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16 July, 2024

In addition to apricot and peach trees, there are many other ornamental plants used during Tet to bring beauty and good fortune to the home. One such plant is the Trạng Nguyên, or “Doctor Laureate,” a shrub with vibrant red leaves and a rich history. Let’s explore the meaning of this unique plant and learn how to cultivate it.

1 What is the Red-Leaved Trạng Nguyên?

Origin of the Red-Leaved Trạng Nguyên

The Red-Leaved Trạng Nguyên, also known as Poinsettia Pulcherrima, belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family and originates from Africa, Central America, and southern Mexico. With its distinctive and vibrant colors, it has become a popular ornamental plant for Christmas and Tet celebrations in various countries.

The Red-Leaved Trạng Nguyên, a member of the Euphorbiaceae family

This shrub was first discovered in 1834, and its striking colors quickly made it a favorite for decorative purposes during special occasions. As a result, it has earned additional names such as the Christmas Flower, First-Class Red, and Leaf-Top Flower.

The versatile Trạng Nguyên shrub goes by many names

Characteristics of the Red-Leaved Trạng Nguyên

The Trạng Nguyên is a bushy shrub with a woody stem that can grow up to 4 meters tall. Its leaves are shaped like lances, with a deep green color and a pointed tip. The flowers of the Trạng Nguyên are a vibrant red, arranged in a circular pattern. However, these flowers are actually quite small and yellow, surrounded by the shrub’s distinctive red leaves, with deeper green or yellow leaves below.

The Trạng Nguyên is a bushy shrub with a woody stem

With its rapid growth, vivid colors, and lush appearance, the Trạng Nguyên is a popular choice for ornamental gardens. However, it is important to note that this plant contains toxins that can cause nausea, diarrhea, and headaches for those allergic to its sap, fragrance, or other components. Therefore, it is recommended to keep children and individuals with a history of pollen allergies away from the plant.

2 The Benefits of the Trạng Nguyên Shrub

The Trạng Nguyên shrub offers a range of benefits

The Trạng Nguyên is not just a beautiful plant but also has practical applications. It can be used as an ornamental shrub to add a splash of color to homes during festive occasions like Tet and Christmas. Moreover, it helps purify the air by absorbing smoke and dust, creating a healthier and more vibrant living space.

Beyond its decorative and air-purifying qualities, the Trạng Nguyên also has medicinal uses in traditional Eastern medicine. According to this practice, the plant has a bitter and astringent taste, a cool nature, and mild toxicity. It is believed to regulate the flow of energy in the body, stanch bleeding, heal bone fractures, and treat external injuries and chronic intestinal pain. Additionally, it is used to treat snake and insect bites and relieve pain.

3 The Feng Shui Significance of the Trạng Nguyên

Apart from its aesthetic and medicinal values, the Trạng Nguyên is also chosen for its positive feng shui implications. Its vibrant colors are thought to attract wealth and good fortune to the homeowner.

The Trạng Nguyên is believed to bring academic success

Furthermore, the Trạng Nguyên is considered a symbol of academic success and achievement. Its name originates from a folk tale about a student who, on his way to take an imperial exam, picked a strange flower by the roadside. When he passed the exam with flying colors, the flower’s petals turned red in celebration of his achievement.

In ancient times, the color red was associated with the Trạng Nguyên, the top position in the “Tam Nguyên” hierarchy during the feudal era. Thus, the plant came to symbolize good luck and success in exams and endeavors. It is often given as a gift to students, wishing them smooth sailing and triumph in their academic pursuits.

The best places for the Trạng Nguyên are near the main entrance or study desk

The ideal feng shui locations for the Trạng Nguyên are near the main entrance or study desk. Placing a pot of this shrub near your work area can enhance your focus and productivity. Alternatively, planting it near the main entrance is believed to attract positive energy, promoting good health and smooth endeavors for the family.

4 Compatibility with Zodiac Signs and Elements

The Trạng Nguyên’s combination of red and deep green leaves represents the Fire, Earth, and Wood elements. According to the Five Elements theory, Wood fuels Fire, and Fire produces Earth. Therefore, this plant is especially auspicious for individuals with Fire and Earth elements and zodiac signs. The following is a list of years associated with these elements.

The Trạng Nguyên is ideal for those with Fire and Earth zodiac signs

Fire element zodiac signs: Mậu Tý (1948, 2008), Kỷ Sửu (1949, 2009), Bính Dần (1986), Đinh Mão (1987), Giáp Thìn (1964), Ất Tỵ (1965), Mậu Ngọ (1978), Kỷ Mùi (1979), Bính Thân (1956, 2016), Đinh Dậu (1957, 2017), Giáp Tuất (1934, 1994), Ất Hợi (1935, 1995)…

Earth element zodiac signs: Canh Tý (1960), Tân Sửu (1961), Mậu Dần (1938, 1998), Kỷ Mão (1939, 1999), Bính Thìn (1976), Đinh Tỵ (1977), Canh Ngọ (1930, 1990), Tân Mùi (1931, 1991), Mậu Thân (1968), Kỷ Dậu (1969)…

For individuals with Fire and Earth elements, the Trạng Nguyên is believed to attract wealth and good fortune, promote harmony in the family, and bring success in exams and endeavors. Due to the presence of light-colored leaves, the plant also suits those with the Metal element, but to a lesser extent, as Fire overcomes Metal, and although Earth produces Metal, it is not enough to counterbalance the Fire element.

5 Is the Red-Leaved Trạng Nguyên Toxic?

The Red-Leaved Trạng Nguyên has low toxicity

The Red-Leaved Trạng Nguyên has low toxicity. However, ingesting its leaves may cause mild gastrointestinal distress due to inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Therefore, it is essential to exercise caution if you have young children or pets at home.

6 How to Grow and Care for the Trạng Nguyên

Growing the Trạng Nguyên

There are several ways to grow the Trạng Nguyên, including purchasing young plants, propagating from seeds, or cutting and replanting branches. However, the latter methods can be time-consuming, and it is generally faster and less risky to purchase young plants from nurseries.

Growing Trạng Nguyên from Young Plants

Step 1 Choosing Young Plants

When selecting young plants, opt for those that look healthy and vibrant, free from pests and diseases. Decide whether you want to plant them in pots or directly in the ground.

Step 2 Planting

For pot planting

The best spot for ground planting is near the main entrance

The ideal location for ground planting is near the main entrance of your home. Dig a hole, place the young plant inside, cover its roots with soil, and water it gently.

Propagating Trạng Nguyên through Branch Cutting

Branch cutting is another effective method for growing Trạng Nguyên

Choose a healthy branch from the mother plant, approximately 10cm long, free from pests and diseases.
Remove the leaves and soak the cut end in a rooting hormone solution.
Plant about ⅓ of the branch into a prepared pot or garden bed, and water it gently.

Caring for the Trạng Nguyên

After planting your Trạng Nguyên, it’s crucial to understand how to care for it properly to ensure its health and promote flowering.

Watering

Maintain moist soil for your Trạng Nguyên, especially during the initial stages after planting. Water the plant gently at the base, allowing the water to slowly soak into the soil. This plant does not require overly moist conditions, and moderate moisture is sufficient.

Water your Trạng Nguyên once or twice a day under normal weather conditions

Water your plant once or twice a day, depending on the weather. When watering the Trạng Nguyên in your garden, avoid using too much force, especially during the fall when there are more insects in the soil. Strong watering can cause soil organisms to splash onto the plant, leading to pest problems.

Fertilizer

The Trạng Nguyên is sensitive to fertilizer, so use it sparingly

The Trạng Nguyên is sensitive to fertilizer, so avoid applying large amounts directly to the roots, as this can cause fertilizer burn and root damage. Instead, use a diluted NPK (20:20:20) solution or slow-release fertilizer once a month.

Light and Temperature

The Trạng Nguyên thrives in temperatures between

Frequently asked questions

Salvia officinalis ‘Purpurascens’, commonly known as Red-leafed Sage, is a perennial herb renowned for its vibrant purple-red foliage and culinary and medicinal properties. It is a cultivar of the widely known Common Sage (Salvia officinalis). This particular variety stands out not only for its striking leaf color but also for its robust growth habit and extended blooming period.

Red-leafed Sage offers a multitude of benefits. In the kitchen, its leaves provide a unique flavor profile, combining the familiar savory taste of Common Sage with subtle hints of mint and citrus. It is an excellent seasoning for meats, sauces, and stuffing. Medicinally, it has been traditionally used to aid digestion, boost cognitive function, and alleviate inflammation. The plant is also a source of essential oils, which are used in aromatherapy and natural remedies.

Red-leafed Sage thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate light shade and drought conditions once established. Propagation is typically done through cuttings, and the plant benefits from regular pruning to maintain its compact shape and promote new growth. It is recommended to provide a layer of mulch to retain moisture and prevent weed competition.

Red-leafed Sage benefits from occasional fertilizing, particularly during the growing season, to promote healthy leaf production. Pruning is essential, not only for shape maintenance but also to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming leg. Ensure adequate air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal diseases, and keep an eye out for common pests such as aphids and spider mites.

Yes, Red-leafed Sage can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny spot. Ensure the plant receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily, and provide a well-drained soil mix. Regularly rotate the pot to promote even growth, and pinch back the stems to encourage bushiness. Indoor plants may require less frequent watering, so allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.