Don't be surprised if someone says "hare-py New Year" to you next week as the lunar year is the Year of the Rabbit. In Chinese culture, the Rabbit is a symbol of longevity, peace and prosperity. Because some plants found growing on the tropical island of Hainan and across China have “rabbit” or “bunny” in their names or their appearance bears resemblance to the adorable animal, they've become popular as gifts.

Thelymitra antennifera, commonly known as the Rabbit-ear Orchid, receives its name on account of its  rabbit ear-like petals. This kind of orchid can be found in the warm, moist environment of Hainan’s tropical rainforest. Readily cultivated in pots, it makes a good houseplant.

Cyclamen Persicum, commonly known as the Persian Cyclamen, is a representative species of cyclamen that flowers during the period from winter to spring. With the petals noted resemblance to upturned rabbit ears, the Chinese name literally means "rabbit ear flower." Its brilliant red flowers make it a good choice for interior decorations during the Spring Festival.

Bunny-ear Succulent

(Photo / Hainan Daily)

The Bunny-ear Succulent (Monilaria obconica), has two long, narrow green downy leaves like a cute little bunny's ears. It has increasingly become a popular kind of potted plant for interior decoration. These little succulents, although growing in a small pot are tenacious sunshine lovers.

The ‘snow rabbit’ (Saussurea gossypiphora), is more commonly known as the snowball plant. Growing in the rocky Himalayas region of southwestern  China, its fluffy bunny-like appearance protects itself from the predation of herbivores in the alpine flowstone area.