In the ancient Indian science of Vastu Shastra, the placement of plants is considered a vital element in creating a balanced and harmonious living environment. Plants are not only appreciated for their aesthetic appeal but also for their ability to influence the flow of positive energy, purify the air, and bring prosperity. For homes that face north, the significance of choosing the right plants is even more pronounced, as the direction is associated with the planet Mercury and is believed to impact communication, intelligence, and financial well-being.
This article provides a detailed overview of Vastu-compliant plants suitable for north-facing houses, based on the principles of Vastu Shastra. The recommendations are drawn from verified sources and emphasize the importance of aligning plant placement with directional guidelines to enhance the energetic and spiritual well-being of a home.
Understanding the North Direction in Vastu Shastra
The north direction is governed by the planet Mercury, known in Vedic astrology for its influence on communication, intellect, and business success. In Vastu, the northeast corner (NE) of a north-facing house is particularly auspicious, as it is considered the most potent area for placing plants and other positive energy generators. This corner is associated with the flow of cosmic energy and is believed to amplify the prosperity and mental clarity of the occupants.
Plants placed in the north direction should ideally have upward-growing foliage to symbolize growth and progress. Additionally, it is advised to avoid placing plants in the northwest (NW) corner, as this may disrupt the natural energy flow and bring about instability or stagnation.
Essential Vastu Plants for North Facing Houses
Selecting the right plants for a north-facing house is essential to ensure that they contribute positively to the home’s energy field. Below are some of the most recommended plants, based on the principles of Vastu Shastra and verified by multiple sources.
1. Money Plant (Epipremnum aureum)
The money plant, also known as golden pothos, is one of the most popular and effective Vastu plants for north-facing houses. It is believed to attract financial prosperity and abundance. According to Vastu guidelines, the money plant should be placed in the northeast corner to maximize its positive influence. It is also low-maintenance and easy to care for, making it a practical choice for both homes and offices.
2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
The snake plant is another beneficial plant for the north direction. Known for its air-purifying properties, it helps in removing toxins and creating a healthier indoor environment. It is also believed to promote mental clarity and stability, aligning with the directional influence of Mercury.
3. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
The Areca palm is a visually appealing plant that enhances the aesthetic appeal of any space while also contributing to the positive energy flow. It is associated with promoting success and good fortune, especially in professional environments. The plant should be kept in a well-lit area and regularly maintained to ensure it remains healthy and vibrant.
4. Lucky Bamboo (Bambusa spp.)
Lucky bamboo is a versatile and meaningful plant in Vastu Shastra. It is often used as a symbol of growth, prosperity, and positive energy. According to Vastu principles, the number of bamboo stalks can have different meanings—for example, seven stalks signify a wish for good fortune, while eight stalks are linked to wealth and prosperity. It is ideal for the northeast corner of a north-facing house.
5. Tulsi Plant (Ocimum tenuiflorum)
The Tulsi plant, or Holy Basil, is considered sacred in Hindu tradition and is highly recommended for placement in the entrance or northeast corner of a home. It is believed to purify the air and bring in positive vibrations. For north-facing houses, the Tulsi plant is particularly auspicious and can enhance the spiritual ambiance of the space.
6. Neem Tree (Azadirachta indica)
The Neem tree is another important plant in Vastu Shastra. It is associated with protection, health, and spiritual purification. While it is typically recommended for the entrance of a home, it can also be beneficial in the north direction of a north-facing house. Its presence is said to ward off negative energies and promote a sense of security.
7. Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
The jade plant is a popular choice for attracting wealth and is considered a powerful Vastu plant. According to Vastu Shastri Dr. Anand Bhardwaj, placing a jade plant in the north direction of a home can help attract the blessings of Lord Kuber, the Hindu deity of wealth. It is a low-maintenance plant and is believed to bring stability and success in financial matters.
8. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The spider plant is a versatile and easy-to-care-for plant that is also recommended for the north direction. It is believed to bring peace and tranquility to the home. With its cascading foliage, it is ideal for hanging baskets or shelves and contributes to a calming atmosphere.
Placement Guidelines for Vastu Plants in the North Direction
Proper placement is crucial for maximizing the benefits of Vastu-compliant plants in a north-facing house. Here are some key guidelines to follow:
Placement in the Northeast Corner (NE): The northeast corner is considered the most favorable area for placing plants in a north-facing house. This area is believed to enhance the flow of positive energy and is particularly beneficial for mental clarity and communication.
Avoid the Northwest Corner (NW): Placing plants in the northwest corner may disrupt the energy flow and should be avoided. This area is associated with instability and is not recommended for plant placement.
Upward-Growing Foliage: Plants with upward-growing leaves or stems are preferred, as they symbolize growth, success, and progress. These plants align with the directional influence of Mercury and support the homeowner’s ambitions and aspirations.
Health and Maintenance: Plants should be kept healthy and well-maintained to ensure their positive effects. Dead or decaying plants should be removed immediately, as they can emit negative energy and disrupt the balance of the space.
Avoid Cacti and Thorny Plants: Cacti and other thorny plants should not be placed in the north direction, as they are associated with sharpness and may bring about conflict or tension in the household.
Benefits of Vastu Plants in North Facing Houses
Incorporating Vastu-compliant plants into the design of a north-facing house can yield numerous benefits, both tangible and intangible. These include:
Improved Mental Clarity and Communication: The influence of Mercury in the north direction promotes better communication, problem-solving, and intellectual growth. Plants like the money plant and snake plant are particularly effective in enhancing these qualities.
Increased Financial Prosperity: Plants such as the money plant, jade plant, and lucky bamboo are believed to attract wealth and abundance. They support the financial well-being of the household and are especially beneficial for business owners.
Purified Air and Healthier Environment: Many Vastu plants, including the snake plant and Areca palm, have air-purifying properties. They help in removing toxins and improving indoor air quality, contributing to the overall health and well-being of the occupants.
Enhanced Harmony and Peace: Plants like the Tulsi and spider plant promote a sense of calm and tranquility. They help in reducing stress and fostering a peaceful atmosphere within the home.
Spiritual and Energetic Balance: The placement of sacred plants like the Tulsi and Neem tree supports spiritual harmony and protection. They create a positive and auspicious environment, aligning the home with natural and cosmic energies.
Avoiding Negative Impacts: What to Avoid in the North Direction
While certain plants enhance the positive energy of a north-facing house, others may have adverse effects. It is important to avoid the following:
Cacti and Thorny Plants: As mentioned earlier, cacti and other plants with thorns should not be placed in the north direction. They are associated with sharpness and may lead to conflicts or emotional distress.
Dead or Wilting Plants: Wilting or dead plants should never be kept in any part of the home, as they emit negative energy and may contribute to illness or misfortune.
Heavy or Large Pots in the Northeast: The northeast corner should be kept light and open to allow the free flow of energy. Heavy pots or large furniture should be avoided in this area.
Overcrowded Plant Arrangements: While plants are beneficial, overcrowding can create imbalance and restrict the natural flow of energy. It is advisable to maintain a balanced and open layout.
Conclusion
Selecting and placing Vastu-compliant plants in a north-facing house is a powerful way to enhance the energetic and spiritual well-being of a home. By aligning plant choices with directional guidelines, homeowners can attract prosperity, improve communication, and foster harmony and peace.
The recommended plants—money plant, snake plant, Areca palm, lucky bamboo, Tulsi, Neem tree, jade plant, and spider plant—are all rooted in Vastu principles and offer both practical and symbolic benefits. Their placement in the northeast corner of the house is particularly auspicious, as it aligns with the directional influence of Mercury and amplifies their positive effects.
For those seeking to optimize the energy of their home through Vastu Shastra, incorporating these plants into the design of a north-facing house can be a transformative step toward achieving balance, success, and spiritual well-being.