The folk culture often contains deep meanings about plants, and many classical poets incorporate the imagery of trees into their works to express their emotions and reflections.
Trees have existed for a long time in history, even before humans appeared. Therefore, trees have been associated with various special meanings in different regions of the world since ancient times. The ancients have told many legends revolving around the image of trees. One of the famous proverbs about this is: “Do not be afraid to have a toad enter the house, just three trees in front of the door.” So what are those three trees?
To understand the meaning of this proverb, we need to analyze both its literal and figurative meanings. In traditional belief, toads are often seen as symbols of luck and wealth, similar to the image of bats. This explains why in the past, many families considered having a toad enter the house as a good omen, expecting prosperity and abundance.
As for planting trees in front of the house, this has long become a part of folk culture. People often plant trees that have good meanings such as pomegranate trees, peach trees, and Alstonia scholaris trees, hoping to bring wealth, happiness, and health to their families.
However, there are three types of trees that people usually avoid planting in front of their houses, what are they?
Hawthorn tree
In Eastern culture, especially in China and Vietnam, hawthorn trees are often associated with grief and loss. The reason comes from the phonetic similarity between the word “hawthorn” and the words “pain” or “mourning” (in Chinese-Vietnamese). This creates a strong linguistic connection with negative connotations. According to folklore, planting hawthorn trees in front of the house can bring about sad events, even mourning for the homeowner.
Willow tree
In folk culture, willow trees are often associated with the image of separation and sadness. Willows have delicate leaves that sway in the wind, creating an image of a gentle but profound separation. In some Eastern legends, willow trees are also seen as trees that can guide the souls of the deceased back to the other world. Therefore, planting a willow tree in front of the house is considered a sign of separation, loss, or even death.
Jackfruit tree
According to some feng shui experts, planting jackfruit trees in the garden symbolizes harmony and solidarity. Some also believe that jackfruit trees represent resilience, calmness, and wisdom. However, jackfruit trees are included in the list of trees that should not be planted in front of the house.
Jackfruit trees can grow tall with a wide trunk and wide leaf canopy, requiring ample space for growth. Planting jackfruit trees in the garden will be more suitable for this requirement. Planting jackfruit trees in front of the house can limit the space for the tree to grow and make the cleaning work difficult. At the same time, if the jackfruit tree grows too tall, it can obstruct the light and make the house gloomy and cold.
30+ Proverbs and Expressions Celebrating the Meaningful Vu Lan Festival and Filial Piety towards Parents
As celebrations of respect and love, the Vu Lan Festival is a uniquely special occasion for children to let their parents know how much they care. Read on to discover traditional Vu Lan folk songs and proverbs that commemorate the event!
Sleep Experts Advise: “3 Sleep Cycles Make You More Vulnerable than You Think”
In ancient times, it was believed that these 3 types of sleep were detrimental to health. However, not everyone is aware of this fact.
What are the 5 plants that bring bad luck according to the ancient ancestors?
According to our ancestors, it is believed that these types of trees should not be planted at home due to Feng Shui, as they can potentially affect the homeowner’s prosperity.
Feng Shui Master Warns: Planting These 4 Trees in Your Home Will Lead to Financial Ruin
Not all plants are suitable for planting according to feng shui principles. There are certain plants that are believed to bring in negative energy and reduce positive energy. So, what are these plants?
Ancestor’s Prohibition Proven Wrong: ‘5 Types of Trees that Bring Poverty and Lack to Your Home’
These types of trees are not good in terms of feng shui, so absolutely do not plant them around your house.
