Bamboo

Bamboo is a group of woody perennial evergreen plants belonging to the true grass family, Poaceae. Although bamboo is a grass, there are bamboos that are larger and appear tree-like. They are often referred to as 'bamboo trees' and popular in cultivation as garden plants. They mainly spread through their roots which can spread underground and send off new culms to break through the surface. There are two main patterns for the spreading of bamboo: clumping, and running. Clumping bamboos spread underground slowly, while running bamboos are highly variable in their tendencies to spread. Bamboos, due to their long life, are considered symbols of 'long life' in Chinese culture. They have also been considered lucky plants in Chinese culture for over 4000 years. According to Feng Shui, bamboo symbolizes wood that brings energy of vitality, strength, and growth into one's home or office. In India, bamboos are known as symbols of 'friendship'. A bamboo is a plant that bends, adapts, and goes with the flow without any changes. It is evergreen and requires only water for growth; it does not necessarily require sunlight for growth. A bunch of green and fresh bamboo sticks can be bundled together, kept in a glass bowl, and placed facing the east for good health, and south east for prosperity. The bowl can be placed in the office and factories for good fortune, and in living rooms for longevity and freedom from illnesses and diseases.