Feng shui beliefs about the Chinese mahogany tree (Toona sinensis): where is the best place to plant it?

1. Symbolizes longevity and wealth

The Chinese mahogany tree is a common tree and, in feng shui terms, one with a favorable symbolic meaning. It is called the king of trees and represents longevity; like the great chun tree recorded in Xiaoyaoyou (Free and Easy Wandering), it is a sign of long life. In some northern regions today, there is still the custom of "touching the chun," which symbolizes that children will grow up healthy. Chinese mahogany also carries the feng shui symbolism of good fortune and wealth, can boost the financial luck of later generations, and symbolizes abundant wealth and ever-increasing prosperity.

2. Pay attention to pruning and care

There is an old folk saying, "When the Chinese mahogany grows past the roof, the owner may come to harm." This does not mean the tree is an unlucky one; rather, it is a reminder that the owner should prune the Chinese mahogany in the home. Its wood is relatively brittle, and if it grows taller than the roof, people may fall and be injured while harvesting it; moreover, if the tree breaks, the damage is also considerable. So when planting it, be sure to prune it regularly and keep its growth height under control.

3. Planting position

When planting a Chinese mahogany tree at home, choose a suitable spot. It can be planted about 10 m from the house; it should not be too close to the house, nor too close to the windows. If the home has a south courtyard, it can be planted by the wall of the south courtyard, which has little effect on light exposure, carries good symbolism, and can bring good fortune.