How to care for a Money Tree Plant
Money doesn’t grow on trees… or does it?
The Money Tree plant, or Pachira aquatica, is a plant that quickly rose to fame in the 1980s as a symbol of prosperity—bringing positive energy and good fortune to its owners. The Central and South American plant was actually cultivated in Taiwan as a bonsai by a truck driver and quickly rose to popularity amongst Feng Shui practitioners, thought to “trap fortune within its folds.”
If you’re looking for a plant that actually grows money, you’re out of luck.
Resilient and easy to care for, Money Tree plants are great for beginners or first-time plant parents! Much like the Snake Plant, they were also rated highly as an effective indoor air filter and purifier in a study by NASA. With their tropical “palm tree” look, they make an exciting addition to any business or household.
Sunshine
Money Tree plants like bright indirect light; like most houseplants, too much can result in scorched leaves while too little results in yellowed or brown leaves. It’s also recommended you rotate the plant monthly to ensure a healthy even growth.
Soil
Any general nutrient-rich potting soil will Make sure to avoid using any blends of soil designed to retain water, as root rot can be a serious concern for Money Tree plants! You can also mix some sand and gravel into the soil yourself to add extra porousness.
If applying any fertilizer, either use half the recommended amount or dilute it (if liquid) to half the recommended strength. You should feed a Money Tree plant once a month in the spring and summer during growing season, and space it out further during winter.
Water
Contrary to the name “aquatica,” the Money Tree plant actually does not require a large amount of water, preferring to stay relatively dry! Bloomscape recommends waiting until the soil is around 50-75% dry before watering, and to make sure your pot has plenty of drainage holes to allow the water to pass through and prevent root rot.
Temperature
Money Tree plants are most comfortable anywhere from 65-80°F, but they’re also hardy and can handle an extra 10 degrees higher or lower. However, according to Miracle-Gro, you should avoid vents or any area with frequently fluctuating temperatures as the plant can go dormant when shocked by rapid changes.
Owing to their tropical origins, Money Tree plants absolutely LOVE humidity; the more the better! You should regularly mist their leaves or, if that proves difficult, there are plenty of great plant-friendly humidifiers that can be placed nearby. If neither of these options works for you, simply place a pebble tray with water beneath the pot.
Pruning
Money Tree plants require regular pruning; snip away dead or damaged leaves with sharp scissors or pruning shears if you have them. (Be sure to wipe them clean between cuts!) For best results, make sure to clip just past a node—the point on a stem where all the branches and leaves originate out from.
Extra Information
Though the Money Tree is a fan of bright indirect light, they are also fine with fluorescent lights.
The ASPCA has certified that the Money Tree plant is non-toxic to both humans and animals, though we wouldn’t recommend chowing down on one regularly either.
Use a well-fitting pot to help avoid root rot.
Avoid bugs and pests by using neem oil on the soil.
