Money Tree
Pachira aquatica
The Money Tree is a tropical wetland tree from Central and South America, often sold with braided trunks and hand-shaped green leaflets. Associated with good fortune in Feng Shui, it makes a lush indoor tree when you give it bright light, humidity, and careful watering.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Easy
Humidity
High
Pet Friendly
The Money Tree is considered non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses according to the ASPCA. However, ingestion of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in sensitive pets.
Care Notes
Light
Place in bright, indirect light. Direct sun can scorch leaves. Lower light is tolerated, but growth slows and stems may stretch.
Water
Water when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil are dry. Soak until water leaves the drainage holes, then empty the saucer. Standing water leads to root rot. Water less in winter.
Soil
Use a peat-based mix with plenty of perlite or sand so excess moisture drains quickly.
Humidity and Temperature
Higher humidity helps. Mist, use a pebble tray, or run a humidifier. Keep temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C), away from cold drafts and heaters. Prune for shape and remove yellow leaves as they appear. Growth is strong in spring and summer; in fall and winter, water less and pause fertilizer.
Common Issues
Yellow leaves often mean overwatering. Brown tips usually point to dry air. Leaf drop can follow a sudden move or cold draft.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer
Soil
Well-draining, peat-based potting mix with plenty of perlite or sand.
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
6-8 feet indoors
Growth Rate
Fast
Propagation
Stem cuttings and seed propagation.
Common Varieties
Standard Pachira aquatica
Glossy solid-green palmate leaves with five to seven elongated leaflets radiating from one point.
often sold as a braided specimen.
Hand-shaped palmate leaves of five to seven glossy lance-shaped leaflets on braided trunks.