Many families prefer to decorate the space around their homes by planting green trees, not only for beautifying the living environment but also for filtering the air and providing a relaxing atmosphere. However, when it comes to rebuilding or renovating the house or garden, cutting down some trees may be unavoidable.
However, there are certain types of trees that we need to be cautious about when deciding to cut them down. According to tradition, there is a proverb that says: “Cutting down these 3 trees brings poverty.” This proverb implies that cutting down these types of trees can have negative consequences for the family’s wealth and luck, which can lead to a decrease in prosperity and an increase in difficulties. But which trees are considered these “forbidden” trees?
Old hoe tree
In tradition, our ancestors shared valuable advice on avoiding cutting down three types of trees in order to protect the family’s wealth. One of these types of trees is the hoe flower tree, scientifically known as Sophora Japonica L.
This is a woody tree that can reach a maximum height of 15m when fully grown. The hoe flower, with its yellow flowers when blooming and turning ivory white, not only has a distinctive fragrance but is also considered a valuable medicinal plant with anti-inflammatory, hemostatic properties, and cooling effects on the body.

Often planted in front of houses, the hoe flower tree not only brings shade and relaxation from its beautiful flowers but is also considered a symbol of fame and dignity. It not only brings luck and wealth to the homeowners but also hopes for career advancement. Cutting down an old hoe tree can be seen as an action equivalent to losing blessings and opportunities for advancement.
Du tree
The proverb “There is a du tree behind the house, a hundred ghosts dare not approach” has made the du tree famous, being considered a tree that wards off evil spirits. Planting a du tree in the house not only helps remove negative energy but also brings peace and harmony to the family.
The du tree is seen as a feng shui symbol that brings luck and wealth, helping the household avoid misfortunes and disturbances. The Chinese characters for “du” and “dư” also have the same pronunciation, so the du tree is also understood as a “surplus money” tree, stimulating financial prosperity.

Moreover, the du tree has a long lifespan, with some living over a thousand years, symbolizing health and longevity. Planting a du tree not only provides protection for health but also hopes to prolong the life of the elderly. Nowadays, du trees are often planted as bonsai trees in pots, serving as a feng shui highlight in living spaces.
Therefore, our ancestors advised against cutting down this type of tree.
Crunchy rose tree
This is a popular tree planted in Vietnam, which not only produces delicious fruits but also carries many positive meanings in terms of feng shui. The crunchy rose tree, with its musical name of pink, symbolizes peace and good luck.
The crunchy rose tree bears round and heart-shaped fruits, symbolizing family reunion, prosperity, and bringing a sense of luck and wealth. Therefore, in folk beliefs, it is considered a tree that should not be cut down to avoid “breaking” the wealth of future generations.
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