Is It Okay to Plant Sakaki in Your Garden? | Explanation of Precautions, Pros, and Cons
Is it okay to plant sakaki in your garden?｜Explaining points to note and pros and cons
The sacred sakaki offered to the kamidana. Each time you make a new offering monthly, its lush green leaves bring a refreshing feeling.
Some of you might be thinking, "If only I could carefully grow this sacred tree in my home garden."
However, many may also feel anxious after hearing things like, "You shouldn't plant sakaki in your garden" or "It brings bad luck."
In this article, for those with such concerns, we will explain the following points in detail from an expert's perspective:
・The real reason why sakaki is said to be "unplantable"
・If you do plant it, what should you be careful about (location and cultivation)
・The pros and cons of planting sakaki in your garden
By reading this article to the end, you will understand the truth behind the rumors and be able to confidently decide what you should do.
Please use it as a reference.
Should you not plant sakaki?
Is the idea that you shouldn't plant sakaki true? For those considering garden trees, this is the most concerning point.
To conclude, it's okay to plant!
First, to conclude, there is absolutely no problem with planting sakaki in your home garden. Please rest assured.
Nothing bad will happen, and it won't bring bad luck just because you planted sakaki.
Planting it in a home garden was avoided as being inappropriate
So, why did the idea of "not planting it" spread?
It's not about scary stories of curses or祟, but rather the background of the ancient Japanese people's unique deep reverence for deities.
Sakaki has been considered a very sacred tree that should be planted in the precincts of shrines and temples. Therefore, from a humble feeling that "it is presumptuous to plant it in a common household garden" or "it is inappropriate for the deities," the custom of avoiding its planting was born.
In other words, the phrase "you shouldn't plant it" is not so much a prohibition or taboo, but rather a message imbued with the devout hearts of people from the past, saying, "Since it is a sacred tree, let's treat it with utmost respect, as if we are worshipping it."
Places where sakaki should not be planted
While planting itself is not an issue, precisely because it is a sacred tree, a little consideration for the planting location will convey a more respectful sentiment.
Here are some places that are better avoided, including from a feng shui perspective.
Avoid Kimon (northeast) and Urakimon (southwest)
In house feng shui, the northeast direction, known as "Kimon," is considered the entrance for demons, and the southwest, "Urakimon," is considered a place where impurities tend to accumulate.
It is generally avoided to plant sakaki, a sacred tree, in these directions, as the pure energy of sakaki might clash with the impure energy of Kimon.
Avoid in front of the gate or entrance
Planting a sakaki tree in places where people frequently enter and exit, such as the entrance or directly under the gate, in a way that would cause someone to look down on it or step over it, is considered disrespectful to the sacred tree.
It is better to plant it in a slightly secluded, calm location.
Consideration needed near shrines or cemeteries
If there is a shrine nearby, care should be taken so that your sakaki does not look down on the shrine's sacred tree.
Also, some believe it is better to avoid planting it near graves, as it would place a sacred tree too close to a Buddhist site.
About the sakaki growing environment
Here are some horticultural tips for growing healthy sakaki.
・Sakaki is a relatively strong plant It is hardy and easy for beginners to grow.
・Not good in cold places As it is originally a plant from warm regions, please avoid cold areas or places exposed to strong winter winds.
・Partial shade is ideal Strong direct sunlight can burn the leaves and turn them yellow. Bright, partial shade, where dappled sunlight falls, is most suitable.
・Well-drained soil is best It does not like soggy environments. It prefers well-drained, slightly moist soil.
・Prune once a year It grows vigorously and can become too large if left untended, so prune it once or twice a year, in spring or autumn, to maintain its shape.
Benefits of planting sakaki
There are many benefits to planting sakaki in your home.
Can procure branches for kamidana yourself
This is probably the biggest advantage. The joy of being able to pick fresh, vibrant sakaki from your own garden and offer it to the kamidana on the 1st and 15th of every month is invaluable.
Beautiful foliage enhances the garden
Sakaki is an evergreen tree with lush green leaves all year round, and its leaves have a beautiful luster. It enhances the garden's appearance and brings a sense of purity.
As an auspicious tree, it purifies the space
Having a sacred tree in the house is believed to purify the space and bring good energy to the entire home. It can also serve as a symbol tree for the prosperity of the family.
Disadvantages of planting sakaki
On the other hand, there are also practical disadvantages that you should be aware of before planting.
Grows well, so pruning is hard/troublesome
Because it is a vigorous plant, if left unpruned regularly, its branches will grow wild, and its shape will become unruly.
Some people may find this maintenance troublesome.
Leaves can scorch in strong afternoon sun
If planted in the wrong spot, strong afternoon sun can damage the leaves, making them look unattractive. Careful consideration of the location is necessary.
Family members or relatives may dislike it
This is an easily overlooked point. Even if you don't mind, some family members or relatives might think it's "bad luck to plant sakaki in the garden."
Before planting, it's advisable to check with those around you to be on the safe side.
If you want to plant sakaki but are worried about maintenance, &YOUKAEN's Hisakaki subscription is recommended
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What is the difference between Sakaki and Hisakaki (Small Sakaki)?
Hisakaki is a plant that has been used in Shinto rituals as a sacred tree, similar to Sakaki, for a long time in regions north of Kanto where true Sakaki struggles to grow.
It is characterized by slightly smaller leaves but is also an important evergreen tree that expresses respect for the deities.
Is it okay to offer Hisakaki (Small Sakaki) to the kamidana?
Yes, it's perfectly fine. What matters more than the type of plant is the "sincerity" with which you revere the deities. Offering Hisakaki is considered an act rooted in the local nature.
Summary
Finally, here are the key takeaways from this article.
・It's okay to plant sakaki in your garden. The idea that "you shouldn't plant it" comes from respect for deities, not a prohibition.
・However, as a consideration for the sacred tree, it's more respectful to be a little careful about where you plant it, avoiding places like the "demon gate" (kido) or in front of the entrance.
・Considering the effort of pruning and family opinions, using convenient services is a smart choice if planting is difficult.
Without being swayed by rumors, let's continue to face your kamidana with a fresh spirit, in a way that suits your lifestyle and beliefs.
Oct 21, 2025
