Introduction to Paper Flowers
Paper flowers are a simple and beautiful type of flower, also known as paper flowers or bougainvillea spectabilis (scientific name), bougainvillea (English name), or paper flowers. They belong to the Nyctaginaceae plant family. The name of this flower is based on its delicate yet resilient beauty, as it withstands drought well and blooms all year round. Moreover, the petals of this flower resemble soft, delicate sheets of paper.
Paper flowers are woody and can grow as climbers, extending rapidly with many thorny branches. The leaves are dark green, oval-shaped (tapering at the top and rounded at the base, slightly curved), and alternate on the stems.
The flowers of paper flowers grow in clusters at the tips of the branches. Although they come in various colors, they are actually bracts (modified leaves) that create the colors of the flowers. The tube-shaped flowers inside (white or slightly yellow) are usually enclosed by three bracts. The fruits of paper flowers are rarely seen but can be identified by their round shape and brown color.
Feng Shui Meaning of Paper Flowers
The shape of paper flowers as described above, with their climbing growth and many branches, symbolizes abundance, protection, and complete happiness in Feng Shui. Paper flowers bear many brightly colored flowers, symbolizing good luck, wealth, and fortune for the family. Moreover, according to folk beliefs, paper flowers have the power to ward off evil spirits and deter bad luck.
Which Zodiac Signs are Suitable for Growing Paper Flowers?
According to Feng Shui, paper flowers are most suitable for people born in the Year of the Snake. Planting this flower in their homes brings prosperity, smooth work, and a fortunate life. People born in the Year of the Tiger are also suitable for growing this type of plant, especially those born in the Year of the Horse.
Best Locations in the Home to Attract Wealth with Paper Flowers
Planting paper flowers at the main entrance of the house is highly recommended. This area reflects the owner’s personality and lifestyle most clearly. Moreover, it is the first place where the main energy flows into the house. The Feng Shui of the house, whether good or bad, is reflected in the entrance, so the homeowners need to study and calculate to avoid creating any sources of negative energy that can affect their financial luck.
Additionally, you can also plant paper flowers on your balcony or near windows, as these areas receive energy and natural light into the house. They create harmony with the living space and a sense of closeness to nature, bringing relaxation and peace to everyone.
Having a paper flower plant on your balcony will make you feel more relaxed and comfortable when looking at it.
Care Techniques for Paper Flowers
Care techniques play a part in helping the plant grow well and quickly bloom. Pay attention to the following issues:
Water moderately: Paper flowers are drought-tolerant, so you don’t need to water them too much to avoid overwatering. Only water enough to keep the soil moist.
Monitor the plant’s growth and pest or disease infestations to take timely measures.
Paper flowers are resilient and rarely suffer from pests or diseases, but occasionally, infestations may occur. If you notice any signs of pest or disease infestation, you can treat them by spraying the plant with plant protection products, treating the soil, and pruning the plant regularly.
Fertilize regularly
To encourage the flowers to bloom quickly, fertilize the plant every two months. This will provide enough nutrients for the plant to grow. You can choose a fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 1:1:1 or 2:1:2 (avoid fertilizing immediately after planting) or use organic fertilizer or slow-release fertilizer for optimal results.
Prune the paper flowers
You should prune excess branches, yellowing leaves, or broken parts. The purpose of pruning paper flowers is to stimulate flower blooming and help the plant maintain an attractive shape. Additionally, after the paper flowers finish blooming, you should also prune them to encourage the growth of new flowers. Be cautious while pruning as paper flowers have thorns, so wear gloves to protect yourself.
Train and shape the paper flowers
Paper flowers can climb on various terrains, and their branches are flexible and numerous, so you can completely bend and shape the plant according to your preferences. Some families allow the plant to climb on a trellis, while others create columns or poles for the plant to grow straight.
Things to know after the flowers bloom
The most beautiful time for paper flowers to bloom is during the summer season. Therefore, before that period, pay attention to the care instructions mentioned above to make the flowers bloom more and appear more beautiful (e.g., pruning the plant at the right time to ensure it blooms in the correct season). Additionally, if you want to encourage the plant to bloom more, you can stop watering it for about 4 days and then resume watering. To encourage the growth of lateral shoots, you should trim the top shoots.
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