PEACH BLOSSOM

Here in Malaysia, the peach blossom plant can't really grow well and so during the Chinese New Year we make do with artificial peach blossom flowers to decorate our houses and business premises.  However, I noticed that for the past couple of years, the nurseries and florists have been importing the real peach blossom plants as they have customers who wish to buy them.  The plants do not come cheap.  I found that out when I visited two nurseries selling Chinese New Year plants during the weekend but many people will buy the peach blossoms (桃花) because they are believed to bring good luck in male-female relationships.
In Chinese culture, the peach is a symbol of longevity, and is believed to ward off evil. A long time ago in ancient China, peach blossoms were placed above front doors to stop evil spirits from entering the house. Peach blossoms that bloom during the New Year period indicate good fortune for the ensuing twelve months.
Drats! I should have bought myself a peach blossom plant so that I can have some romance luck next year.  Hmm...I hope they are still available on Saturday when I go back to Ipoh. Kee! Kee! Kee!

References:
http://www.dimsum.co.uk/culture/chinese-new-year-symbols.html
http://www.hkdigit.net/2007/02/peach-blossom/