Money tree
Pachira aquatica
The Money Tree is a tropical wetland tree that can hit 75 feet in the wild but plays nice in a pot, topping out around 3 to 6 feet indoors. You'll recognize it by its glossy palmate leaves and, in most nursery specimens, a braided trunk that's a product of cultivation rather than nature. It has a solid reputation as a good-luck plant in feng shui, and the five-leaflet clusters are said to represent the five elements.
How to grow Money tree
bright indirect light (3-6 feet
water thoroughly (water until it
70%
Thrives between 65°F and 85°F (18 to 29°C).
Well-draining potting mix is essential.
Stem cuttings taken in spring
Yellowing leaves usually mean overwatering
Fun Facts
The iconic braided trunk form was reportedly invented in the 1980s by a Taiwanese truck driver who bundled several saplings together as a good-luck bonsai — the style spread globally from there.
Pet safe
Non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans according to the ASPCA. Ingesting large amounts may cause mild GI upset, but serious toxicity is not a concern.
Sources
- Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) Research Guide (opens in new tab)Botanical Garden
- Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) Research Guide (opens in new tab)Botanical Garden
- The Key to Good Fortune with Your Money Tree (opens in new tab)Botanical Garden
- The Key to Good Fortune with Your Money Tree (opens in new tab)Botanical Garden
- Money Tree Plant (Pachira Aquatica) Care Guide (opens in new tab)Reference
- Money Tree Plant (Pachira Aquatica) Care Guide (opens in new tab)Reference
- Pachira aquatica (Money Tree) - Gardenia (opens in new tab)Reference
- Pachira aquatica (Money Tree) - Gardenia (opens in new tab)Reference
- Pachira aquatica - Wikipedia (opens in new tab)Reference
- Pachira aquatica - Wikipedia (opens in new tab)Reference