Money Tree

Why Everyone Loves the Money Tree

The Money Tree (usually Pachira glabra, often sold as P. aquatica) has become a widely grown houseplant, thanks to its graceful braided trunk, easy-care nature, and the promise of good luck and prosperity from feng shui tradition. Whether or not it brings fortune, it definitely brings style.

A Statement Plant That's Easy to Love

With its palmate leaves fanning out in clusters of five (said to represent the five elements of feng shui), the Money Tree creates an instant tropical vibe. Most are sold with their trunks braided into an elegant twist, though they grow naturally with a single sturdy trunk.

Surprisingly Tough

Despite its tropical origins in Central and South American wetlands, the Money Tree adapts remarkably well to indoor conditions. It tolerates low light, bounces back from missed waterings, and grows at a steady pace that keeps things interesting without taking over the room.

Pet-Safe Choice

The Money Tree is non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it a safe addition to homes with curious pets.

Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry — roughly every 7-10 days. The trunk stores water, making it more forgiving of underwatering than overwatering. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.

Tip: Yellow leaves usually mean overwatering. Let the soil dry out more between drinks.

Bright, indirect light is ideal, but Money Trees adapt well to medium and even low light conditions. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the leaves. Rotate the pot monthly so the canopy grows evenly and doesn't lean toward the light source.

A well-draining, peat-based potting mix works best. Add perlite or sand to improve drainage. The soil should hold some moisture but never stay waterlogged — the swampy origins don't mean it likes wet feet in a pot.

Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength. No feeding needed in fall and winter. Over-fertilizing causes more harm than under-fertilizing.

Propagate from stem cuttings taken in summer. Cut a 4-6 inch piece with several leaf nodes, let it callous overnight, then root in water or moist perlite. Rooting takes 4-6 weeks. Seeds germinate easily but are hard to source outside the tropics.

Repot every 2-3 years in spring, going up one pot size. Money Trees don't mind being slightly root-bound, so no rush. Ensure the new pot has drainage holes.

Leaf drop: Cold drafts, overwatering, or sudden relocation. Give it time to adjust after moving.
Braided trunk softening: Root rot from overwatering — reduce frequency and check for mushy roots.
Brown leaf tips: Low humidity or fluoride in tap water.
Leggy growth: Not enough light — move to a brighter spot and prune to encourage fullness.