Herbs worth growing in the Year of the Horse (Binh Ngo)
For a long time, many Vietnamese families have made it a habit to grow culinary herbs in their gardens, on balconies, or in a few indoor pots. These plants are both handy for cooking and useful as folk remedies, while adding greenery that makes living spaces more pleasant. Many also believe that planting the right herbs at the right time brings good fortune. According to East Asian feng shui, the Year of the Fire Horse (Binh Ngo) is a year when the Fire element flourishes. Plants with natural fragrances, robust vitality, easy care, and close associations with family cooking are considered ideal for indoor growing. Not only do they serve daily life, but they also symbolize prosperity, smooth success, and good luck.
Below are 3 types of culinary herbs that embody all of these meanings and are well worth growing at home for the New Year.
Basil plant
Basil is a familiar culinary herb in Vietnamese meals, often served alongside soups, noodle dishes, and pho. According to traditional medicine, basil features a characteristic aroma that helps stimulate digestion and relieve mild colds.
In terms of feng shui, basil is regarded as a plant bearing strong yang energy, fast-growing, with green leaves year-round. Growing basil indoors or on a balcony is believed to help activate vitality, bringing a sense of freshness and smooth progress in both work and family life. In particular, the gentle aroma of basil also makes the kitchen space feel cozier.
Perilla plant
Perilla is not only a culinary herb but also a familiar remedy in traditional medicine. Perilla leaves are often used to relieve colds, support digestion, and enhance beauty.
In folk feng shui, perilla symbolizes protection and peace. The purplish-green leaves are believed to balance energy, making it suitable for Fire element years such as Binh Ngo. Growing a pot of perilla at home is both convenient for daily use and meaningful in caring for family health—considered the foundation of lasting good fortune.
Ginger plant
Ginger is an indispensable spice in many dishes and folk remedies. Traditional medicine considers ginger a warm-natured herb that warms the body, aids digestion, and boosts immunity.
In terms of feng shui, ginger is considered a plant with strong yang energy due to its pungent flavor and warming nature, helping to dispel negative energy and enhance vitality in living spaces. Ginger rhizomes grow vigorously and branch out profusely, so they are often seen as a symbol of abundance, fertility, and prosperity. Many people also believe that growing ginger indoors, especially in eastern or southeastern areas, can attract wealth and bring warmth and good fortune to the family. In the Year of the Fire Horse (Binh Ngo)—a year with pronounced Fire characteristics—ginger is even more highly regarded as a harmonious plant.
Growing culinary herbs indoors is not only a convenient habit but also a way for many families to express their hopes for a prosperous, healthy, and smooth New Year. For the Year of the Horse (Binh Ngo), basil, perilla, and ginger are not only easy to plant and care for, but also carry positive feng shui meanings, suited to modern lifestyles while preserving Vietnamese traditions.