Despite its name and appearance, the Lucky Bamboo is not a true bamboo. It belongs to the Ruscaceae family, the same as the Ponytail Palm and other dracaenas, while true bamboos belong to the Poaceae family. If allowed to grow freely, this dracaena reaches a medium size, with a height of 3 to 5 feet (1 to 1.5 meters), featuring upright, slender stems with a herbaceous texture, and narrow, lance-shaped, evergreen green leaves. There are also beautiful varieties with variegated leaves, having white or yellowish margins. The flowers are occasional and lack ornamental significance.
In landscaping, this dracaena serves as a shrub option, with a dense and tropical appearance, making it interesting for forming groups and rows along walls, especially in areas with lower light. It can also be used alone, in planters and pots, adorning patios and sheltered balconies. However, the most common use of the Lucky Bamboo is potted for interior decoration. Popularized by the traditional Chinese science of Feng Shui, it is bought and given as a gift with the intention of bringing luck and good vibes to new beginnings, such as weddings, births, graduations, business openings, property acquisitions, new jobs, etc. Shaped during growth by patient human hands, the thin stems of the Lucky Bamboo acquire various forms, such as spirals, hearts, zigzags, “s” shapes, “8” shapes, towers, braids, and many other creative forms.
The number of stems of the Lucky Bamboo has special meanings according to the Chinese tradition of Feng Shui. Three for happiness, five for health, two for love, eight for health and abundance, nine for good fortune and happiness. The small pots with Lucky Bamboo also symbolize the five elements of Feng Shui: wood (the plant itself), water (from watering and the pot), earth (the substrate and stones), fire (the red ribbon around the pot or stem), and metal (the glass pot or some metal ornament).
It should be cultivated in partial shade or diffused light, in fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter and regularly irrigated. It can also be grown in water, hydroponically, for indoor use. Monthly fertilization is sufficient for this species. It does not withstand intense cold or frost and does not tolerate salinity in the soil or water. Hydroponically grown plants should have only 1 inch (2.5 cm) of the stem covered by water, which should be changed weekly and must not be chlorinated or fluoridated. If using tap water, it should rest for at least 24 hours before watering to allow harmful substances to evaporate. Sudden changes in light can cause burns or leaf drop. It propagates easily by cuttings.
