The Mighty Chinese Juniper: Unveiling Its Unique Characteristics and Feng Shui Significance

The Araucaria columnaris, or the Fish-scale Cypress, is a beautiful miniature ornamental plant that has become popular in Vietnam. Also known as the “Bong Lai Pine” or “Pine Cone”, this small tree is native to New Caledonia and is characterized by its unique fish-scale-like foliage.

1What is the Fish-scale Cypress?

The Fish-scale Cypress, or Araucaria columnaris, is a charming miniature tree native to New Caledonia. It has also been referred to as the Tùng bồng lai or Tùng gai in Vietnam. This small tree, belonging to the Araucariaceae family, features distinctive leaves that grow in a fish-scale pattern along its branches.

The Fish-scale Cypress originates from New Caledonia

The Fish-scale Cypress is considered a luxurious and eye-catching plant, capturing the hearts of many at first sight. It has become an increasingly popular choice in the world of ornamental plants.

2Distinctive Features of the Fish-scale Cypress

Fish-scale Cypress: A Captivating Miniature Tree

The Fish-scale Cypress typically grows to a height of 30-40 cm. Its branches and trunk grow close to the ground, and the trunk is notably flexible and easy to shape, making it a favorite among bonsai enthusiasts.

The tree features long, sharp, and deep green leaves that grow in a distinctive fish-scale pattern along its branches. This slow-growing tree only replaces its leaves once every few years. Additionally, its root system is robust and expansive, firmly anchoring the tree to the ground.

3The Fish-scale Cypress in Feng Shui

The Fish-scale Cypress Holds Deep Significance in Feng Shui

In the traditional four gentlemen of Feng Shui (Tùng – Cúc – Trúc – Mai), the cypress (tùng) takes the first position due to its profound and auspicious symbolism.

Beyond its aesthetic value, the Fish-scale Cypress is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune, health, and prosperity to its owner. According to Feng Shui masters, this tree has a particularly beneficial influence on individuals born in the year of the Monkey (“Thân“).

The lush green leaves of the tree make it especially suitable for individuals with a “Mộc” (Wood) element in their Chinese zodiac sign. However, since Wood gives rise to Fire in the five elements theory, it is also compatible with individuals of the “Hỏa” (Fire) element.

In recent years, the Fish-scale Cypress has become a popular choice for housewarming gifts and home decor, symbolizing nobility and bringing good luck and wealth to the recipient.

4Benefits of the Fish-scale Cypress

The Fish-scale Cypress: A Popular Choice for Home and Office Decor

The Fish-scale Cypress is a versatile ornamental plant, well-suited for decorating living rooms, offices, and work desks, adding a touch of freshness and tranquility to any space.

It also makes a thoughtful gift for loved ones on special occasions, such as birthdays, gatherings, housewarmings, or business openings. Furthermore, its ability to repel mosquitoes makes it a practical addition to any home.

This article has provided an overview of the Fish-scale Cypress, including its origins, distinctive features, and significance in Feng Shui. We hope that you now have a better understanding of this lucky and auspicious tree and how it can enhance your living space.