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7 plants NOT to grow indoors according to Feng Shui

Feng Shui invites us to rethink which species we cultivate, considering their subtle effects on physical and emotional well-being

By Milena Garcia

Submitted at Jul 5, 2025, 9:51 AM

08 min de leitura
7 plants NOT to grow indoors according to Feng Shui
The Feng Shui, an ancient Chinese system, proposes the balance of energies in projects through the arrangement of furniture, colors, elements including plants! According to this philosophy, cultivating species indoors can be highly beneficial, as long as they are plants that favor the flow of energy. On the contrary, some varieties can cause exactly the opposite effect, generating stagnation, conflicts, and a sense of discomfort.
Marcelo Salum - Chez Odara. Project of CASACOR Santa Catarina 2022.

Marcelo Salum - Chez Odara. Projeto da CASACOR Santa Catarina 2022. (Denilson Machado/CASACOR)

In this content, we bring together 7 plants that Feng Shui recommends to avoid in indoor projects whether due to their shape, symbolism, or the energy they carry. Understanding these indications can help create a lighter and more welcoming atmosphere in communal spaces.

1. Cactuses


Although popular in contemporary decoration projects, cactuses are not well regarded in Feng Shui. This is because their pointed leaves — full of thorns — represent cutting energy or “sha chi”. According to Feng Shui, this type of vibration can stimulate stress, hinder relationships, and attract tensions, especially in places like the living room or bedroom. If you wish to keep cactuses at home, it is ideal that they stay outside or in less frequented areas.
Cultivation of cacti in the greenhouse at home

(Vincent Erhart/Unsplash/Divulgação)

2. Sword of Saint George


Despite its reputation as a protective plant, the Sword of Saint George also carries controversial symbolism. According to Feng Shui, its rigid and sharp shape can create energetic barriers and affect the flow of the project. The plant can be beneficial outside, protecting the entrance of the house, but is not recommended for indoor spaces like bedrooms and offices.
Sword of Saint George in decoration

(Pinterest/Divulgação)

3. Crown of Christ


With its thorns and vibrant red flowers, the Crown of Christ is a plant with a striking appearance — but energetically, it may not be the most suitable. According to Feng Shui, the excess of thorns and toxic sap are associated with conflicts and aggressiveness. Additionally, the plant can bring a sense of discomfort and tension to indoor projects.
Crown of Christ

(BePage/Divulgação)

4. Bonsai


Although aesthetically admired, the bonsai carries a symbolism of limited growth, which beliefs say can interfere with the energy of personal or professional expansion and development. As it is a “contained” tree, Feng Shui understands that it represents the interruption of cycles and goals. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid cultivation inside the house — especially in spaces related to work or finances.
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(Pinterest/Divulgação)

5. Mint


Aromatic plants usually have positive meanings, but mint, curiously, is not welcome in all contexts. In Feng Shui, it is associated with energetic instability, due to its chaotic and invasive growth. Additionally, its strong aroma can generate excess stimulation, which disrupts the project. Therefore, it is better to keep it in the outdoor garden or in areas that demand dynamism, such as balconies.
Mint

(Freepik/Divulgação)

6. Fern


With leaves that spread downward, the fern symbolizes decaying energy. In Feng Shui, it can represent loss of vitality and drainage of energy. Even though it has aesthetic appeal in retro or tropical decorations, this plant is not recommended for rest or meditation areas, where elevation and emotional balance are sought.
American fern.

Samambaia-americana. (Jardineiro.net/Divulgação)

7. Peace Lily


The name and appearance can be deceptive: despite being associated with harmony, the peace lily can carry harmful toxins indoors, in addition to accumulating a lot of moisture. According to Feng Shui, excess water and shade can attract stagnant energy, which makes the project heavier. If you still choose to have it, prioritize well-ventilated areas with natural light entry. Peace Lily Plants to cultivate apartment CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content creator agent, developed by the CASACOR Technology team from the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.