Money may not grow on trees, but good luck just might! If you’re trying to grow your indoor plant collection, it’s time to treat yourself to a money tree. These houseplants, also known as pachira aquatica, were first popularized in the 1980s. They’re said to bring good luck, positive energy, and financial success to your space. Even if you don’t believe the legend, a money tree has glossy leaves and a tidy upright form that make it an attractive addition to any room of the house. It’s often sold with a braided trunk or in bonsai form, which only enhances its good looks. Best of all, money trees are as easy to grow as snake plants!
Here’s everything you need to know about money tree care.
How much sunlight does a money tree need?
Money trees like bright, indirect light, such as in an east, south, or west-facing window. Originally from wetlands in Central and South America, your baby tree would be sheltered by mature trees in its native habitat—so don’t give it direct sunlight, which could cause sunburn. On the other hand, if you don’t give your money tree enough light, it has a tendency to get leggy and scraggly. It’s best to rotate the plant every week to keep its nice upright form and prevent it from leaning toward the light.
What is the best way to water a money tree?
Even though money trees grow in wetlands, they don’t like to stay sopping wet. Give it a good drink about every week or two until water runs through the bottom of the pot. Then dump out overflow from the saucer. Allow the soil to become mostly dry before you water again. In winter, put your plant on a shallow tray filled with pebbles and water to boost humidity indoors. You also can group it with other plants because plants transpire, or emit moisture, so it’s beneficial for them to be around each other.
![a money tree plant pachira aquatica green pachira aquatica leaves on beige background](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/money-tree-1646759025.jpg?crop=0.507xw:0.760xh;0.127xw,0.0708xh&resize=980:* "A "Money Tree" plant (Pachira Aquatica)")
How do I care for a money tree?
Like most tropical houseplants, the money tree needs a warm home between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Don’t let it get a chill from a drafty window or AC vent because it doesn’t like sudden temperature shifts, and it may drop leaves in protest. It’s also fine to feed it with an all-purpose fertilizer in spring and summer during its active growing season.
Are money trees toxic to pets?
According to the ASPCA, money tree is not toxic to pets. However, any plant can cause tummy or GI upset and vomiting if your pet ingests enough, so keep this plant (and all houseplants!) away from nibblers.
Where to Buy a Money Tree
Money Tree Garden
11-Inch Money Tree
Arricca Elin SanSone has written about health and lifestyle topics for Prevention, Country Living, Woman's Day, and more. She’s passionate about gardening, baking, reading, and spending time with the people and dogs she loves.
