In Vietnamese culture and daily life, the carambola tree is associated with gentle and kind virtues, and it is often linked to one’s hometown and blessings received for living a virtuous life. The ancient legend of birds eating the fruit and leaving gold behind, along with the folk song about sweet carambola clusters, has left a deep impression on the minds of Vietnamese people.
According to feng shui beliefs, many people consider it a good omen to see a carambola tree when buying or renting a house.
For this reason, carambola trees have become popular as ornamental plants and are believed to bring good feng shui to a house.
One of the advantages of the carambola tree is that it is easy to grow, with minimal leaf shedding. It produces an abundance of purple flowers and clusters of golden-yellow fruits when ripe, resembling real gold. Thus, the tree symbolizes wealth, prosperity, a large family gathering, and a happy home. Additionally, the carambola tree is resistant to pests and diseases, making it easy to cultivate and maintain.
However, to ensure that your carambola tree brings good feng shui and attracts wealth and luck, there are a few things to keep in mind:
1 Major Taboo to Remember When Growing Carambola Trees
To attract wealth and prosperity, it is crucial to consider important feng shui principles when growing carambola trees. These trees can grow quite large, so it is essential to plan their location carefully. If you plant a carambola tree in the ground near the entrance of your house, make sure it doesn’t block the pathway. A fully grown tree can obstruct the flow of positive energy into your home and hinder the path of wealth. Removing the tree at this stage could be challenging as it may be seen as a loss of luck, but leaving it could result in financial difficulties.
It is recommended to plant carambola trees in areas that won’t obstruct pathways and to ensure they are conveniently located. If the tree’s foliage spreads too close to the entrance, trim it neatly to avoid affecting the owner’s ming tang (bright hall) area. For those who wish to grow large carambola trees, it is advisable to move them to the back of the house, as their size and lushness will bring even more luck.
2 Things to Do When Growing Carambola Trees for Abundant Flowers and Fruits, Inviting Prosperity
Remember to Whitewash the Tree’s Base Annually to Prevent Pests: Whitewashing is a technique used to protect trees from pest infestations. Each year, during the dry season, apply whitewash to the base of the carambola tree to prevent pest attacks and promote its healthy growth. A healthy tree will produce more flowers and fruits, attracting greater prosperity.
Ensure Adequate Water and Light: Carambola trees do not require intricate care. If the tree is planted in the ground, its deep roots will likely eliminate the need for frequent watering. However, if it is potted, regular watering is necessary. These trees prefer moderate sunlight and cannot tolerate harsh direct sunlight or complete shade. Ensure your tree receives sufficient light to promote abundant flowering and fruiting, bringing prosperity to your household.
Which Feng Shui Element is the Carambola Tree Suitable For?
With its brown trunk, green leaves, and bright yellow fruits, the carambola tree is associated with the Fire and Earth elements. Therefore, individuals belonging to these elements may find that growing a carambola tree brings them good luck and prosperity.
Should You Choose Sour or Sweet Carambola for Better Feng Shui?
Both sour and sweet carambola varieties exist, and either choice will not affect the feng shui of your home. Sour carambola is commonly used for cooking and medicinal purposes. Its leaves are effective in treating boils and heat-related ailments. Sweet carambola, on the other hand, produces larger fruits with thicker segments. If you’re planning to grow a small tree in a pot for ornamental purposes, you may prefer the sweet variety for its larger fruits. However, if you intend to use the leaves and fruits for cooking, the sour carambola is a better choice.
The Carambola Tree’s Medicinal and Culinary Uses
In traditional medicine, carambola leaves are valued for their ability to treat boils, sores, and itchy skin conditions. They are particularly beneficial for individuals with urticaria and children with prickly heat. During hot and humid summers, bathing with carambola leaf water is a time-honored remedy for skin eruptions. For those with oily skin or acne-prone skin, washing the face with carambola leaf water or applying leaf compresses can be beneficial.
The fruits are believed to be rich in vitamins, minerals, and lycopene, promoting healthy skin and supporting men’s prostate health. Carambola fruits can be served as a dessert, made into jams, cooked in soups, or dried and used for cooking fish or shrimp.
Disclaimer: This information is for reference only and should not be solely relied on for decision-making without further research or consultation.