Pachira aquatica, better known as the money tree plant, has a reputation for being one of the easiest trees to grow indoors. So, If you’re looking to add a little extra life and greenery to your space, money tree plants are a unique and beautiful option.
This tropical tree is commonly used to add some green in homes as well as offices, lobbies, restaurants, and other public spaces. This plant is a low-maintenance, pet-friendly plant with hand-shaped leaves. It grows large, green pods containing edible chestnut-like seeds and is native to Central America.
About this Plant
Native to central and South America, the Money Tree is a braided tree that can grow up to 6-8 feet indoors or be trained as a bonsai. In east Asia, the Money Tree is often used by those who practice Feng Shui to bring positive “Chi”, or energy, into the room, thus being a popular housewarming gift. On top of that, it is a hardy plant that requires relatively low maintenance. It can tolerate direct sunlight, but prefers bright indirect light, lots of water, and warm temperatures.
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Plant Care
Sun exposure:
Money trees prefer bright, indirect light and moderate-to-high humidity. Direct sunlight can lead to leaf-scorching, but the plants can do relatively well in low light. Like their fellow tall houseplants, fiddle leaf figs, money trees are sensitive to movement and other sudden changes in the environment. Choose a spot away from cold drafts, which can cause leaf drop.
How to care for a Money Tree
To avoid root rot, a money tree needs a sandy, peat-moss-based soil and a pot with good drainage. Although it likes humidity in general, you should let its soil dry out between watering.
Be sure to water thoroughly, yet infrequently (once or twice per week), and ensure your pot has a drainage system.
Low humidity may also cause droopy or discolored leaves. Boost humidity by misting your money tree regularly, and keep it out of direct sunlight to avoid burning the leaves.
How to Propagate
While money tree plants don’t have to be braided, most of the modern pachira aquaticas you’ll find on the market are braided when you buy them.
With clean pruning shears, cut off the tip of a stem with at least two leaf nodes. Dip the cut end in hormone rooting powder, and place in a standard potting mix. Keep the soil moist with regular misting until the cutting roots, in approximately 4 weeks.
Like most houseplants, money trees also require regular pruning. First, you’ll want to keep an eye out for any dead, damaged, or dying leaves and snip those.
You can also prune them to be a specific shape if you prefer—money tree plants are traditionally round on top, but you can also let your plant do its own thing and just prune problematic parts to keep your plant thriving and encourage new growth.
Common Money Tree Plant Problems
Overwatering and too much sunlight are the most common causes of problems with money plants. Since money tree plants require a lot of water all at once, they can be prone to root rot. Root rot, if you’re unfamiliar, is when there’s too much water in your plant, causing the roots begin to decay and die. Make sure that when you’re watering your plant, you don’t see extra water sitting in the saucer under the drainage holes—if you do, clear it out to avoid root rot.
Pests like spider mites, scale, and mealybugs can impede the growth and health of your money tree. Remove them by blasting leaves with water (cover the pot and soil before you do this), dab leaves with rubbing alcohol or use an insecticidal solution.