The Euphorbia succulent, also known as the eight immortals or bat tien flower in Vietnamese, is a beautiful and unique plant with a range of cultural and medicinal uses. This article will explore the symbolism and benefits of this plant, as well as provide a comprehensive guide to cultivating and caring for it.
1 Introduction to the Bat Tien Flower
The elegant white bat tien
Native to the island nation of Madagascar, the bat tien is a variety of cactus with a compact size, typically growing to a height of 15-30cm. Its stems are slender and branched, bearing thorns and a milky sap within. The leaves are oblong and green, while the roots form a tight clump, anchoring the plant firmly in the soil.
One of the most distinctive features of the bat tien is its long-lasting flowers, which bloom year-round in a variety of vibrant colors including red, purple, yellow, and white. These blooms emerge from the leaf axils, lasting for four to six months and adding a stunning display of color to any space.
2 Symbolic Meanings in Feng Shui
Attract wealth and prosperity with the red bat tien
In Feng Shui, the bat tien flower holds a variety of symbolic meanings:
- Attracting Good Fortune and Happiness: In Southeast Asian cultures, the bat tien is believed to bring luck and happiness to its owner.
- Ward Off Evil Spirits: The plant is also thought to ward off negative energies and evil spirits, creating a protective barrier around the home.
- Inviting Wealth: According to Feng Shui principles, the bat tien attracts wealth and prosperity to the household. Placing it in your home or business is said to bring financial success and good luck in ventures.
3 Optimal Placement for Feng Shui
Adorn your balcony or patio with the bat tien
To maximize the Feng Shui benefits of the bat tien, it is important to place it in an auspicious location:
The ideal spots to display the bat tien are on the porch, balcony, or in the garden. Not only will it enhance the beauty of your living space, but it will also serve to ward off negative energies, bringing peace, good fortune, and prosperity to the household.
Interestingly, the bat tien does not conflict with any Feng Shui directions or elements. However, it is believed to be especially beneficial for those born in the year of the Dragon (Tinh Con Rong). For them, growing the bat tien is likened to a “tiger growing wings”, bringing smooth sailing in career, love, and finances.
4 Medicinal Uses of the Bat Tien
The bat tien’s beauty extends beyond its appearance
In traditional Vietnamese medicine, the bat tien is believed to possess healing properties. It is characterized as having a cooling nature, a bitter taste, and containing a small amount of toxins.
When combined with other herbs, the bat tien is used to treat a range of ailments, including hemorrhaging, burns, wounds, and inflammation. It is also believed to be beneficial for liver conditions.
5 Cultivation and Care Tips
A well-cared-for bat tien will reward you with a stunning display
While the bat tien is adaptable to various environments, certain cultivation and care techniques will ensure it thrives and blooms abundantly:
Propagation Techniques: There are several methods to propagate the bat tien:
- Seed Germination: While this method is used by some, it is slow to produce flowers.
- Cuttings: Commercial growers often use this method, but it requires skill to avoid root rot.
- Transplanting Young Plants: This is the most common and successful method for home gardeners, offering a high survival rate with minimal care.
Planting Instructions: Prepare a well-drained pot with broken bricks or coconut fiber at the base. Add a mixture of loamy soil and compost, place the plant, and gently firm the soil. Keep the plant in a shady spot and mist it with water for the first 2-3 weeks, reducing frequency thereafter. Avoid overwatering.
Care Instructions
Temperature: The bat tien thrives in temperatures ranging from 10-40°C, with an ideal range of 20-30°C for optimal growth and flowering.
Light: This succulent thrives in bright, outdoor conditions. It will flourish when grown in a garden or outdoor space. However, it can also tolerate partial shade, making it suitable for balconies, windowsills, or indoor spaces with access to periodic sunlight.
Watering: Unlike other cacti, the bat tien prefers regular watering. During winter, water once a week, and increase to twice a week in summer.
Nutrition: For a lush and long-lasting bat tien, provide it with adequate nutrition. Use a balanced NPK 20-20-20 fertilizer at any growth stage to promote healthy foliage and abundant flowering.
Master the art of caring for your bat tien
Pest and Disease Control: The bat tien is susceptible to root rot. If you notice small black spots on the stems or roots, remove the affected plant and treat the area with lime powder. Ensure you provide adequate nutrition to strengthen the remaining plants.
6 Where to Buy and Price Range
Conveniently shop for your bat tien online
You can easily purchase the bat tien from reputable online retailers such as Shopee.vn, Tiki.vn, and Lazada.vn. Prices typically range from 20,000 VND to 200,000 VND per plant, depending on the flower color, size, and variety.
We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights into the cultural significance, cultivation, and care of the bat tien flower. May it bring you and your loved ones good fortune, happiness, and health!
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