The Crassula ovata, more commonly known as the Money Tree, has long been a popular feng shui symbol in many Vietnamese households and businesses. With its lush, green appearance, the plant represents prosperity and is often displayed in living rooms, offices, or at cash registers to attract wealth and good fortune. However, not everyone is suited to growing this plant. According to feng shui experts, if you belong to one of the two major incompatible groups, it is best to avoid keeping the Money Tree in your home to prevent any negative consequences.
A Name That Suggests Wealth, But Isn’t For Everyone
The name “Money Tree” inherently carries feng shui connotations. “Kim” represents money and wealth, while “tien” symbolizes richness and nobility. Folk beliefs suggest that growing the Money Tree correctly and in accordance with one’s element can attract good luck and improve finances, especially when the plant blooms – a rare but auspicious occurrence.
However, feng shui is not solely dependent on appearances or names. Each plant is associated with a specific element and must be used appropriately according to the homeowner’s element. If not carefully considered, feng shui plants can not only lose their intended effect but also become detrimental, impacting one’s finances and mental well-being.
The Money Tree Belongs to the Wood Element, Conquering Earth and Absorbing Water
According to the five elements theory, the Money Tree belongs to the Wood element, representing growth and development. In the cycle of mutual growth and restriction:
- Wood fuels Fire, benefiting those with the Fire element
- Wood supports fellow Wood elements
- Wood conquers Earth, causing hindrance to those with the Earth element
- Water nourishes Wood but can lead to imbalance if Wood becomes overly dominant
Therefore, individuals with the Wood and Fire elements are well-suited to growing the Money Tree. On the other hand, those with the Earth and Water elements should exercise caution. The Money Tree may weaken their energy, leading to financial losses, career setbacks, and a decline in health.
Earth Element: Financial Losses and Setbacks
According to the five elements theory, Wood conquers Earth. This can be understood as the way plants absorb nutrients from the soil to grow, weakening the earth. When individuals with the Earth element cultivate the Money Tree, which possesses strong Wood energy, their own energy will be restricted, causing a dissipation of their innate energy.
The consequences may not be immediate but will subtly affect their career and finances. Those with the Earth element may encounter challenges in accumulating wealth, experiencing financial losses due to mistaken investments or unexplained monetary leaks.
Water Element: Energy Imbalance and Financial Instability
Although Water nourishes Wood, if the Wood element becomes overly dominant, it can deplete the Water element. In feng shui, balance is key. When the Water element cannot control the Wood element, negative consequences may arise, such as decreased work efficiency, financial instability, and bad luck with money.
Who Is Suited to Growing the Money Tree?
Individuals with the Wood and Fire elements according to the Eight Mansions school of feng shui are typically encouraged to grow the Money Tree. Choosing a plant that aligns with one’s element helps balance energies, promote wealth, and create a peaceful living space.
- Male, Wood element: 1978, 1987, 1996, 2005, 2014
- Female, Wood element: 1979, 1988, 1997, 2006, 2015
- Male, Fire element: 1982, 1991, 2000, 2009
- Female, Fire element: 1985, 1994, 2003, 2012
Note: Determining compatibility with the plant should be based on the Eight Mansions school (calculated based on birth year and gender) rather than the common Five Elements theory to avoid inaccuracies.
