Chinese New Year flowers all the rage
By James Kon

Beautiful Calla Lily to brighten up the festive home interior	Selection of Chinese New Year flowers complete with decorations
Narcissus flower proves a traditional Chinese New Year hit	Pussy Willow is believed to "keep the money flowing in"

Chinese New year is just around the corner, and every ethnic Chinese community home will be decorated with Chinese New Year calligraphy, lantern as well as flowers.

Most Chinese believe that flowers as well as plants displayed at home during this festive season could bring luck and good fortune to the homeowner. And different flowers and plants are believed to possess different qualities.

Galdiolus and Narcissus flowers are usually placed at home as a tradition, while bamboo shoots are displayed for turning one's luck.

Cherry Blossom and Pussy Willow are some of the most common flowers or plants easily available in florist shops like Willyn Floral and Gift Service Enterprise in the Capital.

The owner of Willyn Floral and Gift Service Enterprise, Willyn Sim said that Cherry Blossom is the most sought after by single women who wish to find their other half in the coming new year, while Pussy Willow is usually decorated at houses during Chinese New Year to "keep the money flowing in".

Miss Willyn Sim also said that for the upcoming Chinese New Year, flowers like Hyacinth from Holland is also a hit as it lasts longer than other Chinese New Year flowers like the willow.

"When the (Hyacinth) flower blossoms, it looks very beautiful," said the proprietor.

Also from Holland, the Calla Lily will definitely brighten up the house with its large flowers as well as with the pleasant aroma it emits.

She added that flowers like the Sandersonia which is believed to usher in prosperity for family in the new year are also very saleable.

The shop also specialises in floral arrangements, offering a few unique and lovely ideas in decorating flowers. Decorations include using material from the traditional Chinese dress of "Chueng Sam", vase decorations, as well as miniature firecrackers and red ribbons tied onto the shoot of the plant.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin