With a history rooted in ancient China, Feng Shui is all about curating spaces to encourage positive energy (known as Chi or Qi) and a sense of balance. It has become increasingly popular in Western society over the years as a way to enhance our homes and, as a result, our well-being.
Integrating Feng Shui plants into our living spaces can help, but the power of their placement shouldn't be overlooked. Orchids – some of the most beautiful flowering houseplants – are an auspicious option, and understanding their symbolic meanings will help you pick the best spot for one in your home.
While growing orchids can be challenging, the finicky maintenance could be worth it for their positive impact on your space. Below, Feng Shui experts explain ways to place these plants with intention, including tips on using the traditional bagua map.
What do orchids represent in Feng Shui?
Elizabeth Aley, an interior designer specializing in Feng Shui, says orchids symbolize love and beauty. They can represent fertility, too, adds Angie Cho, author and co-founder of the Mindful Design Feng Shui School.
'Orchids also represent patience,' Angie continues. 'Growing and cultivating orchids can be challenging, and they require a lot of care. It can also take quite a while for an orchid to bloom. Once they do bloom, the flowers last for a long time, which is why they are also a symbol of longevity and strong, long-lasting Qi.'
What's more, Jane Langof, the founder of Feng Shui Concepts, also highlights how orchids are linked to the metal element in Feng Shui, which represents precision, clarity, and refinement. 'This makes them a great addition to spaces that need a lift – whether to enhance focus, create a sense of order, or balance the unique energy of your home.'
The best locations for orchids, according to Feng Shui
'In Feng Shui, we believe there is power in placement,' says Elizabeth. 'So, every design decision should start with intention.'
She recommends using the Feng Shui map, known as the bagua, as a guide for intention-setting in the home. 'The traditional bagua is over 3,500 years old and uses the actual directions (ie. north, south, east, west) to divide up your home,' she explains. 'Each section corresponds to an area of your life. For example, southwest is the location for marriage and relationship, and north is career and life path.'
When placing an orchid, she advises determining what area of your life needs a little extra beauty and love. If you want some help in a relationship, for example, then you could consider placing it in the southwest gua (section) of your home. If this is your goal, she also recommends adding other things that are symbolic of a healthy relationship, such as objects in pairs.
'If you are looking to be recognized for your beauty, you may consider placing an orchid in the south gua (the fame and reputation gua) in your space,' she adds.
But that's not all – there are also particular rooms that make a good match for an orchid or two, as explained below.
In the bedroom
You could consider utilizing an orchid as part of your bedroom's Feng Shui. For instance, Angie suggests placing a pink or purple orchid on your bedside table if you’d like to call in a kind and graceful partner.
'Alternatively, you can place it in the relationships area of your bedroom, called "Kun",' she continues. 'This area has to do with love and partnerships, and we often activate this area when someone is looking to start a new romantic relationship.'
In an entryway
'To help lift the Feng Shui in your home, you can also place a beautiful orchid by your front door that will be visible as you enter,' says Angie. Jane also recommends placing them in an entryway, to create a focal point that brings 'fresh, vibrant energy to the space'.
Combine it with other entryway Feng Shui ideas to further enhance the first impression of your home.
In the bathroom
You could also choose an orchid for a bathroom plant; according to Elizabeth, placing an orchid in a master bathroom is a good option to enhance beauty. 'This is likely the location where you do your personal beauty or skincare routine, and can be a great place to boost the results of those activities,' she says.
Where to place an orchid to help it thrive
Dying plants can create 'dead energy' and are unlucky items in Feng Shui, so, be sure to care for your orchid correctly and put it somewhere where the growing conditions are right.
This entails knowing how to water your orchid properly, knowing how to fertilize it, and knowing how to repot it, too. Using a specially formulated orchid potting soil (or making your own) will help it thrive and avoid waterlogging and orchid root rot.
Remember to protect your plant from central heating and drafts, too, and keep it somewhere with bright, indirect light. Upping the humidity around them is also beneficial.
This organic potting mix helps keep all types of orchids healthy, and has great customer reviews.
FAQs
Do different colors of orchids mean different things?
'Choosing an orchid in a particular color is a way to add another layer of meaning when you are working with this symbol in your home,' says Angie. She explains that purple is the most auspicious orchid color, pink symbolizes love and self-care, and yellow represents stability and strength.
She adds that white is considered a less auspicious color for an orchid in Feng Shui – 'however, you can still enjoy the beauty of a white orchid in your home.'
What is the 'peach blossom' location for an orchid?
Elizabeth notes how placing an orchid in your personal 'peach blossom' location can be very beneficial and is a more advanced step to enhance attraction, luck, and wealth. This is your 'luckiest location', she explains, and is a specific degree point in the home determined by your birthday. Her website includes a guide that explains how to find it.
Looking for more ideas on plant placement according to Feng Shui? Try our guides on where to place a monstera and where to place a snake plant.
