Origin and Characteristics of Golden Rain Tree
The Golden Rain Tree, with the scientific name Parachute aquatica, is believed to originate from Central and South America. Its trunk has a distinctive twisted shape, earning it the nicknames of “braided tree” or “hair braid tree.”
Golden Rain Trees thrive in shaded areas and can grow well in low-light conditions. In the wild, they are predominantly found in swampy areas and can reach heights of up to 20 meters.
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Golden Rain Trees prefer shaded areas and can grow well in low-light conditions.
The tree’s trunk is flexible and resilient, with wide-spreading, lush green leaves all year round. Its flowers are cream-colored, with large petals that open at night, releasing a subtle fragrance. The fruits are egg-shaped, approximately 10 cm in diameter, and turn brownish-yellow when ripe. Each fruit contains about 10-20 seeds.
In their natural habitat, Golden Rain Trees typically bloom from April to November annually. However, cultivated varieties used for ornamental purposes rarely produce flowers.
In Vietnam, the Golden Rain Tree is predominantly found in the northern mountainous regions, including Lao Cai, Quang Ninh, Cao Bang, and Bac Giang.
Feng Shui Significance of the Golden Rain Tree
The Golden Rain Tree is known for its Feng Shui properties, believed to bring wealth and good fortune to its owners. For this reason, it is a popular choice for indoor and office landscaping.
Its sturdy shape and intertwined trunk symbolize unity and resilience in the face of challenges. The lush, vibrant leaves signify prosperity and abundance.
In Chinese, the name “Golden Rain Tree” translates to “gold” and “silver,” implying an abundance of wealth and prosperity. The number of trees planted together in a pot also holds Feng Shui significance:
A single tree with a thick, robust trunk is known as the “Heavenly Pillar,” symbolizing strength and determination;
A trio of intertwined trees represents “Happiness, Prosperity, and Longevity.” This arrangement signifies strong bonds and the harmony of Heaven, Earth, and Humanity, bringing good fortune to all endeavors;
A grouping of five trees is called the “Five Blessings,” encompassing Happiness, Prosperity, Longevity, Peace, and Health. This arrangement fosters harmony and attracts positive life experiences.
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According to Feng Shui principles, the Golden Rain Tree attracts wealth and good fortune.
Feng Shui Compatibility of the Golden Rain Tree
As a woody tree with vibrant green leaves, the Golden Rain Tree is associated with the Wood element in Feng Shui. According to the Five Elements theory, Wood generates Fire, making it compatible with individuals of the Wood and Fire elements or ming.
Additionally, the five-branched leaves symbolize the balance of the five elements (Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth), rendering the tree non-conflicting with any ming.
Being a Feng Shui plant, the Golden Rain Tree is considered harmonious with most ages. Feng Shui experts suggest that it can help temper the character flaws of individuals born in the years of the dog, monkey, and rat, aiding them in finding balance, harmony, and success in life.
Medicinal Properties of the Golden Rain Tree
Aside from its ornamental and symbolic value, the Golden Rain Tree is also used medicinally. Both the flowers and the trunk are utilized in herbal remedies.
The flowers possess cooling and detoxifying properties, effective against skin conditions like boils, abscesses, mastitis, intestinal abscesses, allergies, and itching. They are also used to treat initial stages of wind-heat invasion, fever, dysentery, blood in urine, sore throat, tonsillitis, and conjunctivitis.
A decoction made from the flowers helps increase blood sugar levels, counteracts anaphylaxis, and inhibits various bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, Yersinia pestis, Corynebacterium diphtheriae, and Streptococcus hemolyticus, among others.
Additionally, the Golden Rain Tree helps cool indoor spaces, regulates the air, and repels insects, particularly mosquitoes.
Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice or treatment recommendations.