Chinese Bamboo Tree

Chinese bamboo tree, commonly known as lucky bamboo plant holds a very special place in Chinese culture, especially in Feng Shui, where the plant is believed to bring positive energy to home and to establish the proper balance among the natural elements, fire, water, earth, wood and metal. However, unlike its name, Chinese bamboo tree is actually not a tree. It is a plant that belongs to the grass family, Dracaena and the scientific name of the species is Dracaena sanderiana. But, the look of the Chinese bamboo plant with a hollow and green stem and striking green foliage, closely resembles the common bamboo trees. The plant mainly flourishes in the tropical rain forests of Africa and Southeast Asia, especially in China.

Chinese Bamboo Tree Facts

Chinese bamboo tree is an amazing plant, ideal for any home or office. The plant can be grown from both seeds and cuttings. However, cuttings are usually preferred to grow these plants, as growing from seeds can take several years. The most interesting fact about the growth pattern of Chinese bamboo tree is that, the seeds of the tree do not sprout for four long years. However, in the fifth year, the seeds not only sprout but the plant grows at an astonishing speed to reach a height of about 80 to 90 feet, that is also in just one growing season.

This unique growth pattern of Chinese bamboo tree is often used to highlight the importance of patience in life. Though we cannot see any growth till the fifth year, the lucky bamboo plant is actually growing a very strong and tough root system, on which it can thrive. But as growing lucky or Chinese bamboo tree from seeds is quite a time-consuming task, people usually prefer the cuttings. Most of the time, these plants are sold already potted, so that you do not have to take any extra effort to plant and grow Chinese bamboo plants. However, be sure to choose a healthy plant.

Chinese Bamboo Plant Care

Chinese bamboo plant care is not so difficult. The most important part of Chinese bamboo plant care is providing the required amount of water and sunlight. Many times, the plant is grown in just water, with a few stones, rocks or marbles at the bottom, in order to support the stalks. This method of growing plants is known as hydroponics. However, the plant can also be grown in soil. You can mix sand and peat moss to the soil to grow this plant. The container chosen for growing Chinese bamboo plant should be a few inches larger than the plant or cluster of plants.

Water is something that your Chinese bamboo tree would require in abundance. However, use only filtered or purified water. In case, you use tap water, let the water sit for at least 24 hours. Tap water usually contains chlorine that can adversely affect the growth of the plant. But if you allow the water to sit for a while, the chemicals in tap water will dissipate and then it can be used safely. Change the water at regular intervals, preferably once, in one or two weeks. If you have decided to grow the plant in soil, then do not forget to check the soil before watering. Ideally, the soil should be kept damp between watering, or in other words, do not let the soil dry between watering.

Sunlight is another important factor for proper Chinese bamboo tree growth. The plant would need sunlight, but do not keep it in a place that receives direct sunlight. A place exposed to indirect and filtered sunlight is the best for Chinese bamboo tree. Excessive sunlight can cause yellowing of the leaves. The tip of the foliage can also turn brown, if the plant is exposed to intense sunlight. Chinese bamboo plant rarely requires any fertilization. But if you think that fertilization is important, then use a mild fertilizer. You can also add a few drops of aquarium plant food to the container, where the lucky bamboo is planted. Fertilization, once in a year, is sufficient to ensure proper growth of lucky bamboo tree.

Read more on:

• Cutting Lucky Bamboo
• Caring for Lucky Bamboo

Lucky bamboo plant is believed to attract love, luck, health and prosperity. Even the number of stalks of lucky bamboo plant have different meanings in Feng Shui. As for example, 2 Chinese bamboo stalks are associated with luck, 3 and 6 stalks are thought to symbolize happiness, while 5 stalks are associated with wealth. However, the number four is not considered a good number in Feng Shui. The reason being the word four sounds very similar to the Chinese word for death. Nowadays, Chinese bamboo tree is a popular houseplant not only in China, but in many parts of the world, particularly in the west. Whether you grow Chinese bamboo plant simply as a houseplant, or to attract luck, love and prosperity, this beautiful and appealing plant will be surely a great addition to your living room, or office.