Growing plants at home is a common practice in many cultures, not only to beautify the environment but also to create a harmonious space.
However, some plants are surrounded by legends and myths that claim they can bring bad luck or negative energies into homes.
These stories are often linked to popular beliefs and traditions like Feng Shui, a practice originating from China that seeks to harmonize the energy in living spaces. However, it’s important to remember that these associations are not scientifically proven, and are merely popular myths.
Below, we will explore some of these plants and the legends that associate them with bad luck. It’s essential to highlight that these beliefs are not backed by scientific evidence and should be viewed as part of cultural folklore.
1. Fern (Trachyophyte)
The fern is one of the most common plants in Brazilian homes, with its delicate appearance and lush green leaves. However, according to Feng Shui, the fern is considered a plant that attracts negative energy. The slow growth of its leaves and their tendency to grow downward are associated with stagnation and the blocking of positive energy. Some legends also claim that the fern can affect mood, cause insomnia, and even intensify vices. Despite this, many still choose it as a popular option for gardens and balconies.
2. Cactus
Cacti are resilient plants with spines that, while functional for protection, have sparked superstitions in the world of legends. According to Feng Shui, various species of cacti are seen as magnets for negative energies. Their thorns are considered symbols of obstacles and aggression, and as such, it’s believed that they can generate stress, anger, and anxiety in the inhabitants of the house. While the beauty and simplicity of cacti appeal to many, popular beliefs associate this plant with the intensification of negative emotions.
3. Agave
Native to Mexico, the agave is a plant with wide, sharp leaves that has gradually been cultivated in many Brazilian gardens. While in ancient cultures, such as the Aztec, the agave represented health, longevity, and prosperity, in Feng Shui, it is considered a plant that attracts conflict. Its sharp leaves are seen as symbols of aggression and dispute, pushing away good energy. Additionally, the plant is used in the production of tequila, which is linked to parties and celebrations, but also to the excessive pursuit of pleasure.
4. Sword of Saint George (São Jorge)
The Sword of Saint George, also known as “lanterna,” is one of the most well-known and cultivated plants in Brazil. This plant has sparked controversy due to its associations with Feng Shui and popular folklore. For many, it is considered a symbol of protection, viewed as a “shield” for the home against negative energies. It is believed that the Sword of Saint George helps to ward off evil spirits and undesirable influences. However, according to Feng Shui, the plant may be seen as an attractor of bad energies, especially if grown indoors, due to its toxicity to children and pets.
Interestingly, while some people associate it with protection, others prefer to keep it outside their homes for fear that its properties might bring imbalances. Therefore, the Sword of Saint George is a plant that divides opinions, with some seeing it as an amulet and others believing it could negatively impact the environment.
5. Philodendron (Philodendron)
The philodendron, known for its easy adaptability and growth in indoor environments, is a plant with certain toxicity. According to Feng Shui, this plant can attract bad luck to the home. The myth associates its lush growth with the creation of a stagnant energy environment, which would be harmful to the emotional well-being of the inhabitants. On the other hand, the philodendron has the advantage of being efficient in purifying the air, removing toxins like formaldehyde, but in the context of legends, its appearance and toxic properties make it a target of superstitions.
6. Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
The dieffenbachia, popularly known as “dumb cane,” is an easy-to-grow plant commonly used in indoor environments. Despite its attractive appearance, it is surrounded by a series of myths that associate it with bad luck. Popular belief says that this plant is capable of attracting envy and the “evil eye,” especially due to its exuberant foliage and striking form. Furthermore, dieffenbachia is toxic, which increases concerns about the safety of children and pets. However, for many, it is just a decorative plant that, if well cared for, can add beauty to the home.
7. Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
The pothos, known for its ease of cultivation and trailing leaves, is a plant that grows toward the ground. According to some superstitions, this downward growth is seen as a sign of negative energy. The myth suggests that plants with leaves that point toward the ground attract sadness and discouragement, going against the harmony and prosperity of the home. Despite this, pothos is widely cultivated in gardens and homes, appreciated for its resilience and beauty.
8. Ficus Benjamina (Weeping Fig)
The ficus benjamina is an ornamental tree that is very popular for indoor spaces, especially because of its elegant appearance and shiny leaves. However, legends associate this plant with dishonesty and falsehood. According to Feng Shui beliefs, the ficus benjamina can bring these qualities into the home, negatively influencing the behavior of the inhabitants. Despite this, it remains a favorite for decoration, with the advantage of being easy to care for.
Conclusion: Plants and Their Legends
Although the plants mentioned above are popular in many homes, the legends that associate them with bad luck and negative energy continue to be a recurring theme in many cultures. It is important to remember that these stories are part of folklore and superstition, and not scientifically proven. However, the belief that certain plants can influence the energy in a home reflects a human desire for control and harmony with the environment.
Whether you believe in these legends or simply want to avoid any superstitions, the choice of plants for your home should be based on your preferences and the functionality they provide. After all, the most important thing is to create an environment that brings well-being and peace to those who live in it.
Keywords: plants that bring bad luck, Feng Shui, myths about plants, superstition, negative plants, bad energy.