The Characteristics of the Banyan Tree
The banyan tree is known as a tall, woody tree that reaches about 20 – 30m in height. The tree bark is grayish-brown and smooth. The small branches are brown, with clusters of curved fruits.
The banyan fruits grow from the base to the top, densely packed on the branches, forming clusters on the trunk and large branches without leaves. When ripe, they turn reddish-brown, with a smooth and short stalk.
The banyan leaves have a spear shape, with pointed tips and slightly rounded near the stalk. When young, both sides of the leaves are covered in fuzz. When mature, the leaves appear firm, with entire or slightly serrated edges.
In Vietnam, the banyan tree is cultivated everywhere due to its easy maintenance, ease of growth, and its ability to create a cool and shady environment. Additionally, the banyan fruits can be used in cooking, such as for making salt or fish stew. The tree leaves are also used as a side dish for dishes like nem or sour meats.
The Feng Shui Meaning of the Banyan Tree
In terms of Feng Shui beliefs, the banyan tree symbolizes luck, abundance, prosperity, and completeness for the homeowners.
The clustered banyan fruits intertwining closely with each other create a large resonance, representing the connection of all the wealth and prosperity for the family.
Therefore, the banyan tree is often planted in front of and in the garden of houses, offices, or business establishments to bring luck and prosperity to the owners.
Which Zodiac Signs are Compatible with the Banyan Tree?
According to Feng Shui beliefs, the banyan tree is highly compatible with people born in the Year of the Tiger, Dragon, Snake, and Rabbit. These zodiac signs will benefit from the positive energy that the banyan tree brings, helping them balance and enhance luck and wealth in life.
Should You Choose the Local Banyan Tree or the American Banyan Tree?
Currently, there are two types of banyan trees available in the market: the local banyan tree and the American banyan tree. The American banyan tree has a smaller appearance but larger fruits. The local banyan tree has a more beautiful twisted trunk and smaller fruits. If you plant the tree in front of the house in a pot or on the ground, the American banyan tree is more suitable. If you want a traditional appearance and smaller clustered fruits, you should choose the local banyan tree.
The American banyan fruits are currently more commonly used, so when planting decorative trees in the yard or in pots, you can pick the fruits for culinary purposes.
In the case of planting the local banyan tree as a bonsai to attract wealth, following Feng Shui principles, you should avoid picking fruits for others, as it will cause a loss of luck. Bonsai banyan trees with fully-covered trunks when bearing fruits look beautiful, so many homeowners will refrain from picking the fruits and let them ripen and fall naturally.
If you plant the banyan tree at the back of the house, you can completely harvest the leaves and fruits for culinary purposes. If the front yard is spacious, you should plant the banyan tree on the left or right side. The left side attracts luck, while the right side attracts financial prosperity.
2023 Lunar New Year Gift Ideas for Older Family and Friends
As 2021 approaches, families worldwide are gathering to celebrate the special bond between grandparents and their grandchildren. To show their love and admiration, these thoughtfully chosen gifts will bring a smile to the face of the elderly. Here, we have compiled a list of the 13 most meaningful Tet presents that can bring joy to our beloved grandparents.