Money Tree

Overview

The Money Tree (Pachira aquatica), also known as Malabar Chestnut or Guiana Chestnut, is a tropical wetland tree that has become one of the most popular indoor plants worldwide, prized for its distinctive braided trunk and lush, palm-like foliage. Native to Central and South America, where it grows in swamps and along riverbanks, this plant has been adapted into a perfect houseplant that is believed in many cultures to bring good luck, prosperity, and positive energy to its owners.

The most recognizable feature of the Money Tree is its decorative braided trunk, created by intertwining multiple young stems. This braiding is done by growers when the stems are still flexible and will remain as the plant matures, creating an eye-catching architectural element. Above this braided trunk, the plant produces an umbrella-like canopy of glossy, palmate leaves, with each leaf composed of 5-7 oval leaflets radiating from a central point, resembling a hand with fingers extended.

In its natural habitat, the Money Tree can grow up to 60 feet tall, but when cultivated indoors, it typically reaches a more manageable 6-8 feet, making it an excellent floor plant that adds vertical interest to interior spaces. The plant grows at a moderate rate, adding new leaves regularly during the growing season while maintaining its compact, tree-like form.

Beyond its ornamental value, the Money Tree is popular for several practical reasons. It's relatively easy to care for, tolerating a range of light conditions and occasional neglect. It's also one of the few tree-like houseplants that's non-toxic to pets and humans, making it a safe choice for homes with children and animals. Additionally, like many houseplants, it can help improve indoor air quality by filtering certain pollutants.

In feng shui and other traditions, the Money Tree is considered particularly auspicious. The five leaflets commonly found on each leaf are said to represent the five elements of feng shui—wood, water, earth, fire, and metal—creating perfect balance. The plant is often given as a housewarming or new business gift, symbolizing wishes for financial success and good fortune.

With its attractive appearance, manageable care requirements, and positive cultural associations, the Money Tree has earned its place as a beloved houseplant that brings both aesthetic beauty and symbolic meaning to indoor spaces.

Care Guide

Light Requirements

Money Trees are adaptable to various light conditions, though they have preferences for optimal growth:

• Bright indirect light: Ideal for balanced growth and leaf development
• Medium light: Tolerates well, though growth may be slightly slower
• Low light: Can survive but will grow very slowly with smaller leaves
• Direct sunlight: Avoid as it can scorch the leaves

For optimal growth, place your Money Tree near an east or north-facing window where it will receive gentle morning sunlight and bright, filtered light throughout the day. If placed near a south or west-facing window, ensure the plant is positioned several feet away from the window or protected by a sheer curtain to filter the intense direct sunlight.

The light requirements of Money Trees directly affect their growth rate and leaf development. Insufficient light causes slower growth, smaller leaves, and potentially leggy stems as the plant stretches toward light sources. Too much direct light can burn the leaves, creating brown, crispy patches that damage the plant's appearance.

Rotate your Money Tree a quarter turn every few weeks to ensure all sides receive equal light exposure, promoting even growth and preventing the plant from leaning toward the light source. This is particularly important for maintaining the attractive, balanced canopy that makes these plants so appealing.

Watering

Money Trees prefer a moderate watering schedule with periods of slight dryness between waterings:

Watering Schedule:

• Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings
• Typically water every 7-10 days, depending on your home's conditions
• Reduce frequency significantly in winter when growth slows
• Increase slightly during hot, dry periods when soil dries more quickly

Watering Technique:

• Water thoroughly until it flows from the drainage holes
• Empty the saucer to prevent the plant from sitting in water
• Water the soil directly, avoiding wetting the trunk and leaves
• Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots

Seasonal Adjustments:

• Spring/Summer: More frequent watering as the plant is actively growing
• Fall/Winter: Reduce watering as growth slows and daylight decreases
• Always adjust based on environmental conditions rather than a strict calendar

Money Trees communicate their watering needs through their leaves. Drooping or wilting indicates underwatering, while yellowing leaves often signal overwatering. The plant prefers to dry out slightly between waterings but should never be allowed to dry out completely for extended periods.

Despite their tropical origins, Money Trees are susceptible to root rot if overwatered. When in doubt, it's better to err on the side of underwatering, as these plants are more tolerant of occasional dryness than of consistently soggy soil.

Soil

Money Trees thrive in well-draining soil that retains some moisture:

Ideal Soil Mix:

• 2 parts quality potting soil
• 1 part perlite or pumice
• 1 part coco coir or peat moss
• Optional: Add a small handful of sand for additional drainage

This combination creates a light, airy mix that holds some moisture while still allowing excess water to drain away quickly. The addition of perlite or pumice helps create air pockets in the soil, promoting healthy root development and preventing compaction.

Container Considerations:

• Always use pots with drainage holes
• Plastic or glazed ceramic pots retain moisture better than terracotta
• Choose a pot that's proportional to the plant's size—too large a pot can lead to overwatering issues
• Consider the mature size when selecting a container, but remember that Money Trees grow relatively slowly

Repot your Money Tree every 2-3 years, or when it has clearly outgrown its container. The best time to repot is in spring during the active growing season. When repotting, handle the plant gently to avoid damaging the roots and position it at the same depth it was previously growing.

These plants don't mind being somewhat root-bound, so don't rush to repot them into much larger containers. When repotting, choose a pot that's only 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Temperature & Humidity

Money Trees are tropical plants that prefer warm temperatures and moderate humidity:

Temperature:

• Ideal range: 65-80°F (18-27°C)
• Minimum temperature: 50°F (10°C)
• Will suffer damage below 45°F (7°C)
• Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations
• Keep away from cold drafts, heating vents, and air conditioners

Humidity:

• Prefers moderate humidity (40-60%)
• Can tolerate average indoor humidity better than many tropical plants
• Increase humidity if desired through these methods:
  • Use a humidifier near the plant
  • Place on a humidity tray (pebble tray with water)
  • Group with other plants to create a microclimate

One of the appealing aspects of Money Trees is their adaptability to normal household humidity levels. While they appreciate higher humidity, they generally don't require the high humidity levels that many other tropical plants demand. This makes them particularly well-suited to modern homes and offices with dry air from heating and cooling systems.

Temperature stability is important for Money Trees. During winter, be especially mindful of keeping them away from cold windows and doors. Similarly, avoid placing them near heating vents, which can create hot, dry conditions that stress these plants.

Fertilizing

Money Trees have modest fertilizer requirements:

Fertilizing Schedule:

• Apply a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength
• Fertilize once a month during spring and summer (active growth period)
• Reduce to once every 2-3 months in fall
• Do not fertilize in winter when growth naturally slows
• Resume fertilizing in spring when new growth appears

Fertilizing Tips:

• Use a balanced formula (such as 10-10-10) or one specifically formulated for foliage plants
• Liquid fertilizers are easier to control and less likely to cause fertilizer burn
• Always apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn
• Flush the soil thoroughly with water every few months to prevent salt buildup

Money Trees are light feeders and can be sensitive to over-fertilization, which can cause leaf burn, brown leaf tips, or salt buildup in the soil. Signs of over-fertilization include brown or black spots on leaves, especially near the edges, and a white crust on the soil surface.

Under-fertilization typically manifests as smaller leaves, less vibrant coloration, and slower growth. Finding the right balance of nutrients is important for maintaining the plant's ornamental value and supporting healthy growth.

Propagation

Money Trees can be propagated through stem cuttings, air layering, or seeds, with stem cuttings being the most accessible method for home gardeners:

Stem Cutting Propagation:

1. Select a healthy stem with at least two leaf nodes
2. Using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears, cut a 4-6 inch section
3. Remove leaves from the bottom portion of the cutting
4. Optional: Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to improve success rates
5. Plant the cutting in a small pot with moistened propagation mix (equal parts perlite and peat moss works well)
6. Cover with a clear plastic bag or dome to maintain humidity
7. Place in bright, indirect light (avoid direct sun)
8. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy
9. Roots typically develop in 3-6 weeks
10. Once new growth appears, gradually remove the humidity dome
11. Transplant to regular potting mix once well-rooted

Air Layering:

1. Select a healthy stem section on the parent plant
2. Make a small upward cut about 1/3 of the way through the stem
3. Insert a toothpick or small stick to keep the cut open
4. Apply rooting hormone to the wound
5. Wrap the area with moistened sphagnum moss
6. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and secure with twist ties or string
7. Keep the moss moist by occasionally unwrapping and misting
8. Roots will form in the moss in 4-8 weeks
9. Once roots are visible through the moss, cut below the rooted section
10. Pot the new plant in appropriate soil

Seed Propagation: Money Trees can be grown from seeds, but this method is rarely used by home gardeners due to the difficulty in obtaining fresh seeds and the long time to maturity.

Important Propagation Tips:

• The best time to propagate is during spring or early summer when growth is most active
• Maintain high humidity around new cuttings
• Avoid direct sunlight, which can stress new plants
• Be patient—Money Tree cuttings can take longer to root than many other houseplants
• Expect some leaf drop during the propagation process, which is normal as the plant adjusts

Propagation through stem cuttings is the most common and accessible method for home gardeners. While the process requires patience, it's a rewarding way to expand your collection or share these lucky plants with friends.

Common Problems

While Money Trees are generally resilient, they can experience several common issues:

Yellowing Leaves:

• Cause: Overwatering is the most common cause, though normal aging of older leaves also produces yellowing
• Solution: Reduce watering frequency, ensure proper drainage, and remove only completely yellow leaves

Leaf Drop:

• Cause: Environmental stress, typically from relocation, temperature changes, drafts, or inconsistent watering
• Solution: Maintain stable conditions, avoid moving the plant frequently, and establish a consistent watering routine

Brown Leaf Tips and Edges:

• Cause: Low humidity, underwatering, or fertilizer buildup
• Solution: Increase humidity, adjust watering schedule, and flush soil occasionally to remove mineral buildup

Leggy Growth:

• Cause: Insufficient light causing the plant to stretch toward light sources
• Solution: Move to a brighter location and rotate the plant regularly

Pests:

• Spider Mites: Tiny pests that cause stippling on leaves and fine webbing, particularly in dry conditions
• Mealybugs: White, cotton-like clusters in leaf joints and on stems
• Scale: Small brown bumps on stems and leaves that don't scrape off easily
• Solution: Increase humidity (for spider mites), wipe leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil, isolate affected plants

Root Rot:

• Cause: Overwatering, poor drainage, or compacted soil
• Symptoms: Wilting despite moist soil, yellowing leaves, mushy stems, foul smell
• Solution: Reduce watering, ensure proper drainage, and in severe cases, unpot the plant, trim affected roots, and repot in fresh soil

Trunk Issues:

• Cause: Overwatering, physical damage, or pest infestation
• Symptoms: Soft spots, discoloration, or unusual growth on the trunk
• Solution: Adjust watering, treat for pests if present, and avoid physical damage to the trunk

Most Money Tree problems can be prevented with proper care focused on appropriate light, careful watering, and stable environmental conditions. Regular inspection helps catch issues early when they're easier to address.

Popular Varieties

While the Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) is a single species, it's available in several different forms and presentations:

Standard Braided Money Tree

• The most common form available in garden centers
• Features multiple stems braided together
• Typically sold with 3-5 braided trunks
• Available in various sizes from tabletop to floor specimens
• Classic umbrella-shaped canopy of palmate leaves

Single-Trunk Money Tree

• Natural, unbraided form
• Single straight trunk with foliage at the top
• More tree-like appearance
• Less commonly available commercially
• Often grows more quickly than braided specimens

Money Tree Bonsai

• Miniaturized version trained as a bonsai
• Carefully pruned to maintain small size
• Often features the traditional braided trunk
• Requires more specialized care than standard forms
• Decorative option for desks and small spaces

Variegated Money Tree

• Rare variety with white or cream variegation on leaves
• Same care requirements as the standard form
• Needs slightly more light to maintain variegation
• Slower growing than the solid green variety
• Highly sought after by collectors

Dwarf Money Tree

• Naturally smaller variety
• Compact growth habit
• Ideal for smaller spaces
• Same care requirements as standard form
• Less commonly available than standard size

Multi-Braided Specimens

• Feature complex braiding patterns with multiple stems
• Some have trunks braided into shapes like spirals or loops
• Considered especially lucky in feng shui
• Command premium prices due to the skill required to create them
• Statement pieces for home or office

Open-Braided Money Tree

• Braided at the base but with stems separating higher up
• Creates a more natural, tree-like appearance
• Combines the decorative braided element with a fuller canopy
• Middle ground between fully braided and natural forms
• Interesting architectural appearance

While not true varieties in the botanical sense, these different forms offer options for incorporating Money Trees into various spaces and design aesthetics. All share the same basic care requirements, though bonsai forms need more attentive pruning and watering.

The Money Tree is sometimes confused with other plants that share similar common names, including Crassula ovata (Jade Plant, also called Money Plant) and Pilea peperomioides (Chinese Money Plant). However, the true Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) is distinguished by its palmate leaves and often-braided trunk.

With its attractive appearance, manageable care requirements, and positive cultural associations, the Money Tree makes an excellent houseplant for both beginning and experienced plant enthusiasts. Its adaptability to various light conditions and average indoor humidity levels makes it particularly well-suited to modern homes and offices.