Many, even those of us who are not particularly green of thumb, know of the “money tree;” its characteristic braided trunk and meaningfully-numbered leaves have allowed Pachira aquatica to wind its way into the minds of bonsai enthusiasts and houseplant lovers alike.
Origins
Pachira aquatica is a species of wetland tree found in the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. Not surprisingly, the species follows the “natural growth” trend of houseplant trees, in which the outdoor-growing members of the species raise to heights far greater than those of their indoor counterparts. Where most urban specimens of Pachira aquatica may scrape 2 meters, their unbraided (and thus uninhibited) cousins can achieve heights of 18 meters, as allowed by SF Gate.
However large the natural version of these prosperity-bringing trees may grow in the wild, they can, under proper bonsai training, be as small as twenty centimeters tall. As shared by Bonsai Outlet, the true
“money plant” known and loved today originated in East Asia after a man’s “prayers for money” were answered after he discovered the plant and began cultivating and selling it. It was in Japan, though, that the plant truly grew in popularity after bonsai masters took to braiding (or knotting) the trunks of multiple specimens together.
Care
In regards to the care of indoor Pachira aquatica, much can be deduced from its tropical nature (and possibly even from my prior posts on related topical trees such as Ficus lyata) and subsequent rankings as “easy to care for” by any and all plant care blogs one may encounter online.
The most basic care requirements of any specimen come from their soil medium and housing (potting) conditions, and Pachira are no exclusion. Given the well-draining nature of the soil these trees enjoy in their natural habitat, those that are pot-bound should be planted in a soil mixture similar to that of succulents and cacti, that is, a mixture composed of respective parts earth or peat moss, pebbles or vermiculite, and river sand. Such porous materials will allow water to pass freely through the medium and will fend off root rot. Proper potting procedures for “money trees” vary based on the particular size of the specimen. Bonsai money trees require smaller pots and infrequently replanting (every two to three years with gentle root trimmings in the process), whereas larger, house plant-sized specimens needs only be transplanted every few years when they outgrow their previous pots.
Trees can be pruned (with adequately sharp shears, of course) to shape the growth of the tree at a more aesthetic level, and those who wish to grow their trees to larger sizes may continue to braid the intertwined stems until they have become sufficiently mature (stiff).
Water concerns are rather straightforward for Pachira aquatica and its natural tendencies require it be watered thoroughly only when the top layer (two to five centimeters) of soil are dry. As said prior, a well-draining soil medium will prevent root rot from standing water and possible over-watering. This is one note to that is of rather high importance, as over-watering is one concern that can derail the health of your prosperity tree!
Fortunately, bonsai versions of the tree do not require frequent fertilization and can be fed twice yearly in spring and autumn. Larger plants should, at most, be fertilized twice a month with a diluted (half-strength) water-soluble fertilizer.
P. aquatica‘s sunlight and temperature requirements follow similar topical tree trends: indirect sunlight, not enough to scorch the plant’s (semi-)delicate leaves, but not too little as to stifle specimen’s photosynthetic processes, and warm temperatures above 10 degrees Centigrade. It is also suggested (by each of the sources I have already noted above, in truth) that trees be rotated to ensure their upright growth and even light distribution and be kept away from areas with frequent drafts.
Although these charming plants may seem like unlikely victims of the most common houseplant pests, they are, unfortunately, not immune to their (unwanted) attentions. The primary actors against indoor money trees are mealy bugs and spider mites, but these can be treated at the household level most easily.
May good fortune smile upon you and any money trees you may acquire in your journey through the urban jungle!
Ferguson says
Funny plant, I’d strangely never heard of it. Given its name, I suppose it brings prosperity. I’ve never really believed in that sort of thing, I’m more convinced of the physical. In my opinion, for example, to have money, you have to either work or take out a loan, as explained in detail on https://fitmymoney.com/200-dollar-loan/ . Those interested can consult the resource, which gives tips on how to make a $200 loan. I’ve often used this method when I’m in urgent financial need.
maksromanov says
Stumbled upon a shocking story about a San Jose woman exploiting sympathy online, claiming a bogus illness to secure $100k in donations. It’s disheartening how trust can be manipulated. On a different note, if you’re into exploring the world of decentralized finance (DeFi), check out the latest insights and trends at https://icoholder.com/en/defi. Stay informed and vigilant in the digital space!