Money trees (Pachira aquatica) are surprisingly easy to care for and grow. In this article, I’ll show you all you need to know to keep yours thriving for decades.
Known for their braided trunks, and delicate looking umbrella-shaped leaves, money tree plants are very popular. They look like they’d be fussy and difficult to grow, but they’re actually pretty easy.
These lovely plants flourish with the proper care, and can grow to become large trees. They’re a great choice for beginners and experts alike.
Plus, if you want to try your hand at bonsai, Pachira aquatica is the perfect specimen to start with. In this detailed growing guide, I will tell you all about how to care for a money tree plant.
Money Tree Quick Care Overview
| Scientific name: | Pachira aquatica |
| Classification: | Tropical plant |
| Common names: | Money Tree, Malabar Chestnut, Guiana Chestnut |
| Hardiness: | Zones 10+ |
| Temperature: | 60-85°F |
| Flowers: | White, blooms in later winter / early spring |
| Light: | Partial shade, bright light indoors |
| Water: | Keep soil evenly moist, do not overwater |
| Humidity: | Average to high |
| Fertilizer: | General purpose plant food spring-summer |
| Soil: | Fast-draining, fertile soil |
| Common pests: | Whiteflies, aphids, spider mites |
Information About Money Tree Plants
The money tree (Pachira aquatica) is a very popular plant that’s native to South and Central America.
Though it’s most commonly kept indoors, it’s actually a tropical tree that can grow outside year-round in the warmer climates.
In their native habitat they can get as tall as 15′, and grow very fast. But in a container or inside, they usually stay between 7-10′.
Other Types Of Money Plants
People often call this a “money plant”. But there are a few different plants that have that same common name. So before we go any further, let’s make sure that you and I are talking about the same one here.
This article is all about how to care for a money tree (Pachira aquatica). If you’re looking for information on a different plant, then check out the list below. Otherwise, keep reading!
- Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides)
- Jade Plant (Crassula)
- Pothos Plant (Epipremnum aureum), aka Devil’s Ivy
Pachira Money Tree Plant Meaning
No, money trees don’t grow actual currency (wouldn’t that be nice!), but there is meaning behind the name.
Pachira aquatica got its common nickname because they have a reputation for bringing luck and good fortune to their owners. This is one of the main reasons why I think they are the perfect office plant!
Maybe you’ve never heard the name, but you might recognize a money tree because it’s one of the most popular braided trunk plants.
Benefits Of Money Tree Plants
So what is money tree plant good for? Well, as I already mentioned, the benefits include bringing you good luck and financial prosperity.
They are also very popular in Feng Shui, because they are said to bring positive energy into the room where they’re growing. They’re commonly given as gifts for all of these reasons.
I’m not sure how they got such an amazing reputation, but I’m thinking about growing a lucky money tree plant in every room of my house!
Pachira aquatica Flowers & Fruits
You might be surprised to learn that, when given the proper care, a money tree can bloom and produce edible fruits and seeds.
The highly fragrant flowers open at night, and only last through the next morning or early afternoon before they fade and drop off. They are big, cream or white in color, and can have long red/pink stamens.
If pollinated they will produce a fruit that looks like a cocoa or large nut, hence the common names Malabar or Guiana chestnut.
Both the fruits and the seeds are edible, and can be eaten raw or roasted. The seeds can also be planted to grow new money trees. It’s extremely rare for them to bloom and set fruit indoors though.
Where To Grow Money Trees
Most people grow their money tree indoors year round, but they can also do very well outside in warmer climates. They are hardy in zones 10+.
You can either plant them in the ground, or put them in a pot if you want to restrict their size. Just be sure it has drainage holes so your tree won’t drown when it rains.
Once you choose the perfect spot, it’s best to leave them there. They don’t like to be moved, so if they’re not hardy where you live, keep them inside year round rather than putting them outdoors for summer.
Pachira Money Tree Care & Growing Instructions
Though they are pretty easy to grow, they do have some fairly specific requirements that need to be met in order to thrive. Follow these money tree plant care instructions for the best results.
Watering A Money Tree Plant
One of the key factors to successful money tree care is proper watering. They like a lot of water, but won’t tolerate wet feet for very long. Too much can cause root and stem rot.
Avoid letting them dry out completely though. Instead water when the top 2-3” of soil is dry. A moisture gauge can be helpful in getting it just right.
When it’s time, give it a good drink, and let the excess drain from the holes in the bottom of the pot. Dump the drip tray right away so it’s never soaking.
Humidity Requirements
Another important part of successful money tree care is humidity, which is especially critical indoors during the winter months.
Dry air causes the leaves to curl and turn yellow or brown before dropping off. To increase it, try running a humidifier nearby, or put the plant on a pebble tray.
Misting can also work, though don’t let too much moisture sit on the leaves. To help you maintain the proper humidity level, keep an indoor air moisture monitor nearby.
Money Tree Light Requirements
One of the reasons growing money trees indoors is so easy is because they aren’t super picky about lighting.
They prefer bright, indirect sunlight. But they will adapt to lower light conditions indoors, especially during the winter. If yours is getting leggy or reaching for the window, add a grow light.
Outdoors, money trees can grow anywhere from full to partial sun. But in arid climates they will do best with more shade to prevent burning.
Temperature
Though Pachira aquatica can tolerate cooler temperatures, they grow best when it stays between 60-85°F.
They can survive brief periods below freezing, but will start to suffer when it’s that cold for more than a few hours.
Warmer temps won’t bother them, as long as you give them extra protection from the intense afternoon sun.
Repotting Your Money Tree
Since they grow so fast, you should plan to repot your money tree every few years as a part of their regular care routine. The best time to do it is spring or early summer.
When the time comes, make sure you choose the right sized container. Don’t use one that is too large, because that can cause issues with overwatering and root rot.
Money trees can be grown in very small pots, especially if you want to keep their size manageable. So choose a one that’s only slightly larger than the original.
Related Post: How To Repot Plants: A Helpful Illustrated Guide
Best Potting Soil For Money Tree Plant
A general purpose potting soil will work fine for growing money trees. But, they will do best in a fast draining mix that also retains moisture.
Try using a sandy one, then adding peat moss or vermiculite to help it retain moisture. If you don’t want to fuss with all of that, you can’t go wrong using a bonsai mix.
But you can learn all you need to know in my complete guide to the best type of soil here, and get my recipe to make your own too.
Best Fertilizer For Money Trees
Though money trees aren’t heavy feeders, they’ll benefit from it now and then. They can be sensitive to synthetic chemicals, so I recommend using organic products only.
You can feed them using a half-dose of liquid houseplant fertilizer or compost tea every couple of weeks during the spring and summer.
If you find it easier, try bonsai pellets instead of liquids. Stop fertilizing in late summer, and don’t feed them at all during the fall and winter months.
Pest Control
Insects aren’t normally an issue for healthy money tree plants, but whiteflies, spider mites, and aphids can sometimes invade. If you discover a bug infestation, begin treatment immediately.
Neem oil is my top choice for getting rid of bugs on the leaves. You can also try a pre-mixed insecticidal soap, or make your own with 1 tsp mild liquid soap per 1 liter of water.
Use a yellow sticky trap to capture and help control flying insects.
How To Prune A Money Tree
In general they don’t need to be trimmed, but regular pruning will keep your money tree plant smaller and more manageable. The best time is in the spring or summer.
To prune yours cut off the tips, which will encourage branching and make it fuller. Use bonsai shears or a micro-tip snip for precision cuts.
If it’s overly large, you can top the whole thing to control the size. New leaves grow back quickly, which is one reason why they are so appealing for bonsai.
You can learn exactly how to prune your money tree with my detailed guide and step by step instructions here.
Money Tree Propagation Tips
The two main ways to propagate a money tree are either by stem cuttings or planting the seeds. Taking large cuttings is the fastest way to get a sizable tree.
Simply dust them with rooting hormone and put them into a damp medium until they start to grow. Get the full steps for how to propagate your money tree here.
Troubleshooting Money Tree Care Problems
Though they are fairly easy to grow, there are some common money tree care problems that people tend to have. Here’s how to troubleshoot the symptoms, and what to do about it.
Leaves Turning Yellow
Yellowing leaves usually means you’re watering too much, though it can also be from moving it around, or when it gets too cold for them.
Allow the soil to dry more between waterings, and ensure the temperature stays between 60-85°F. If you recently put it in a new location, then leave it alone because they hate being moved.
Leaves Turning Brown
Lack of humidity or water is usually what causes brown leaves. Raise the humidity level around the plant, and make sure it’s getting enough moisture.
They are also sensitive to sudden temperature changes, and can suffer when exposed to hot or cold drafts. So keep them away from heat vents and drafty areas.
Intense hot sunlight can burn them, so give them afternoon shade if you suspect that’s the problem.
Money Tree Dropping Leaves
Money trees are a bit fussy about their location, and don’t like to be moved around. If you move them too much, the leaves will start dropping.
So keep it where it is, and try not to move it. If you just brought it home, give it plenty of time to adjust.
Improper watering is also a common cause, so make sure the soil stays evenly moist, and never wet or bone dry.
Money Tree Not Growing
If your money tree is simply not growing, then it’s either too cold, improper watering, root or stem rot, or not enough light.
The first thing to do is check the soil to ensure it’s not soggy or wet, and that the stem is firm rather than soft or rotting.
If that’s not the problem, then give it plenty of warmth, and add a grow light if it’s too dark in your home.
FAQs
In this section I’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about money tree care. If you can’t find yours here, ask it in the comments below.
Is a money tree the same as Pachira aquatica?
Yes, a money tree is the same as Pachira aquatica. Money tree is the common name, and Pachira aquatica is the botanical or scientific name.
How fast does a money tree grow?
A money tree can grow very fast with the proper care. In the ideal environment, they can put on a few feet per year. It takes just 5-7 years for them to fully grow into a large tree.
Are money trees hard to take care of?
No, money trees are not hard to take care of, in fact they’re actually quite simple to grow. They’re very resilient and low maintenance, just requiring the basic light, water, humidity, and temperature.
Can A Money Tree Go Outside?
Yes, a money tree can go outside as long as the weather is warm enough, or you live in growing zones 10+. Otherwise, be sure you bring it back inside before the temperature gets below 50°F.
Is Pachira aquatica safe for cats and dogs?
Yes, Pachira aquatica is safe for cats and dogs – and humans too, for that matter. According to the ASPCA website, they are non-toxic to pets.
Growing money trees is fun, and their care is easier than you might think. I’m not sure if it will actually bring you all of the benefits that I mentioned above, but it can’t hurt to try.
If you want to learn all there is to know about maintaining healthy indoor plants, then you need my Houseplant Care eBook. It will show you everything you need to know about how to keep every plant in your home thriving. Download your copy now!
More About Different Houseplant Types
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- How To Care For Rubber Plants: The Ultimate Guide
- How To Care For Umbrella Tree Plant (Schefflera arboricola)
- How To Care For Alocasia Plants
- How To Care For African Mask Plants
- How To Care For A Peace Lily Plant
- How To Care For Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant (Ficus lyrata)
Share your money tree care tips in the comments section below.
Gail says
I have had a money tree for about six years, and during that time I have lived with my dad. I have a cat and so far she has been separated from my plants, but once I get my own place, she won’t be separated from my plants, and I don’t know if money trees are poisonous to my cat or not. She normally doesn’t bother stuff, but every now and then, she does, and I want to make sure she is safe. I have an aloe plant, but I can keep that out of her reach, my money tree is too big for that.
Amy Andrychowicz says
According to the ASPCA website, Pachira aquatica is not poisonous to pets. However, it’s always a good idea to keep your kitty from eating any type of houseplant, even non-toxic ones can cause stomach upset and vomiting.
Diane McCarthy says
My money tree is getting tall. I would like to prune it, and I read the pruning guide. Should I cut out the old growth to make it look like the pictures with the trunk exposed? How tall will it grow.
Amy Andrychowicz says
Yes, you can cut the old growth to make it look like the photos, but you don’t have to do it exactly like that. You can just prune it for size if you would prefer. Money trees can grow up to 15 feet tall.
Suzanne says
I have 3 money tree plants that have been living outdoors for quite a while. Living in So. Fl.allows them to enjoy the humidity, the monsoon rains followed by the sun, etc. We very rarely go below 40′ and I keep them out pf the direct sun, as it is very sub tropical heat that can easily burn the leaves. Your advice was very helpful and I have yet to fertilize them, and have many fertilizers for my succulents, African Violets, Orchids, and Palms and rare Crotons, but am not sure as to what would be best for these plants. I used to use Peters for most of my other plants, but as of late have not been able to find it, and have not seen Bonsai fertilizer in any of our many garden supply centers. I have seen Job sticks, but have not tried them and they seem to be ridiculously expensive. Is regular all purpose fertilizer okay. I thought about leaving them outside until our nighttime temps go down possibly into the 60’s and I shut the a/c off, which probably would be in Nov./Dec. and open the windows up and them bring them in and place them in my Fl. room which faces east and gets some sun but not enough to harm them. I will also place them on dish filled with pebbles and water to give them the humidity as you suggested. Any help you can give me would be greatly appreciated. Do you suggest putting some pebbles in the bottom of the pot when I repot them for better drainage, ( they are growing quite fast) as i have not been able to locate a small bag of porous lava rocks (only 40 lb. bags, which is quite ridiculous.
Amy Andrychowicz says
Yes, a general purpose fertilizer will work just fine for your money tree plants. You can find my recommendations in the section above titled “Best Fertilizer For Money Plants”. As for the pebbles in the bottom of your pots… you can do that, it certainly won’t hurt anything. Just make sure the pot you use has holes in the bottom, because pebbles alone won’t give them enough drainage.
Martina Amaglio says
Hi there! Is there anything I can do to get mine to fill out rather than grow upward? It’s taller than my hubby now!! But only has the main trunk and one branch…. I don’t want to kill it as it’s been with us nearly a decade!
Amy Andrychowicz says
Yes, you can definitely prune it to help it stay small and grow fuller. Money trees respond very well to pruning. Seed the “How To Prune A Money Tree” section above for more details.
Ulyana says
Hello, my money tree has quite a bit of new growth at the top but when I moved the plant from a darker room to my better lit kitchen all of the new growth wilted. I was thinking that I was over watering it recently so it’s been more than a week since the last time I watered it but the droopyness of the leaves have not improved. I sprayed the leaves this afternoon but still see no improvement. What am I doing wrong?
Amy Andrychowicz says
Money plants don’t like to be moved. They can go into shock and start drooping or even dropping their leaves. Just leave it along and treat it like you always have and it should recover.
Jamie says
My money tree has three parts to the braid. I recently noticed a lot of leaves browning and falling off. One of the braids, near the root, seems to be hollow. Nothing is growing from that branch either because it all fell off. Should I repot the plant and discard the possible dead branch?
Amy Andrychowicz says
If one of the stems is hollow and there is no growth on that branch, then yes, I would prune it out and discard it because it sounds like it’s dead. You don’t necessarily need to repot the plant though, money plants can live a long time in small containers and don’t need a lot of room to grow. If you do decide that your money plant is completely pot bound, then you can repot it into a slightly larger container in the spring. Don’t go too large on the container though.
Nohemy Ruday says
Hi my name is Nohemy the pepol call me Emy one of my friends give to me to takier her plant she go some place so she bring to me that money plant,so i takier now for two weeks and i see the plant started to lose some lives so i come worry about because is not my batt i love plants and hurt me wen i see come daying so i check the pot and i think was to small for the said of this plant and on other things i notice was no hold for draining so i decided to chench and a big pot with holds batt wen i put the plant out and the hole soild i descober some money and the soil,i think my friend put this money to the pur plant wish i think dacent help i put all of the money out and i transplant yes i hope don’t died before she have back.so i don’t now watt to tell her i have the money to give to her batt i don’t now watt sugestión to give to her hell me please watt to seid to her thank you.
Amy Andrychowicz says
It’s very common for money plants to drop their leaves when they are moved around, so that may be why this one started to drop it’s leaves. Also, money tree plants grow very well in small pots, and it’s best not to repot them into containers that are too large. So, if you haven’t already repotted it, then I would recommend that you leave it alone. Keep the plant in one spot, and don’t move it around. Then just keep an eye on the soil to make sure it dries out before you water it again.
D. Atkinson says
I love my money tree, I’ve had it for about 16 yrs. I live in fl. we wen’t up north for 3 mo. I think our neighbor watered it to much while we were gone. Its dying the stock dried up. most of it is dead. There are some new leaves sprouting on top of the leaves that are lift.I don’t wan’t to lose it is there any way i can save it. please help.I keep it outside.
Amy Andrychowicz says
Sorry to hear about your money plant! There’s not much you can do at this point. I would allow the soil to dry out before watering it again, and just monitor it for now. Time will tell if it survives.
Therese says
I have had my money tree for about 3 years. I was given it as a birthday gift. I usually give it some water once a week. Lately I’ve noticed that the trunks are turning black. Some of the leaves are turning yellow, and drooping. Do you think that it means too much water? It does not have drainage holes. Do you think I can save it?
Amy Andrychowicz says
Check the trunk of your money plant to see if it’s mushy. The fact that it’s turning black has me worried that it might be rotting. I would definitely guess that it’s being overwatered. Allow the soil to dry out before watering it again, and consider getting a soil moisture gauge to help you water it. I hope it recovers!
Anita Prosser says
My money tree seems to be growing curly leaves. The newer leaves on the top are really small and curly or wavy. Any ideas?
Amy Andrychowicz says
My guess would be that your money plant has bugs, and it sounds like it could be spider mites. Take a close look at the leaves and see if you can spot any bugs, be sure to look under the leaves an on the stems of the plant too.
Pam Doyle says
My plant I think its a money plant, has grown to 6 ft tall. It outside on my patio. Will it hurt it to top it? Its getting to big!
Amy Andrychowicz says
No, it won’t hurt to top it. Pruning money plants makes them grow bushier, and helps to maintain their size. It’s best to prune them during their active growing season, when the plant has plenty of energy to rebound quickly. Sometime during the late spring or early summer would be the best time to prune a money tree.
Patti Daniel says
I got a beautiful money tree plant but I have notices the leaves are turning WHITE what could this be caused from? Please help I don’t wanna lose this tree.
Amy Andrychowicz says
My guess is that your money plant is getting too much light. Is it in a sunny window, or exposed to direct sunlight at all? If so, move it to a spot where it doesn’t get any direct sunlight.
Linda says
Recentlty my money tree is getting very tall growth and there are some roots coming through the bottom. But my real concern is some of the leaves have started to yellow and fall off I have not changed my watering routine or anything what is happening….
Amy Andrychowicz says
Have you moved it recently? That could be part of the problem. Money plants don’t like to be moved, and this is one reason they will drop their leaves. Also, even though you haven’t changed your watering routine, check the soil to make sure it’s not wet. And when you say it’s getting very tall growth, is it getting leggy, or just growing taller?
Cindy Bunning says
Hi. I have had a small table top money plant for maybe two years. It has done well. The directions said to water with two ice cubes once a week. I just bought a large money tree this past week and it also said two ice cubes!! That can’t be right. It is at least five times larger. Any thoughts? Thank you.
Amy Andrychowicz says
Weird, I just had another person ask about watering a money plant with ice cubes. LOL!! I told them that I wouldn’t recommend using ice cubes to water it, because plants are very sensitive to extreme hot and cold temps. I think it’s so strange that the instructions actually tell you to use ice, I’ve never seen that before. You guys must have bought the same plants. 😉 Anyway, money plants like to have their soil dry out slightly between waterings, but don’t let the soil dry out completely. When it’s time to water, give them a good drink (with room temperature water), and allow the water to drain completely from the pot.
Cindy Bunning says
Hi Amy. Thank you for your reply about watering money trees with ice cubes. I wanted to tell you that I also recently bought an orchid plant that said to water with three ice cubes once a week. All three of these plants cam from BJ’s.
Amy Andrychowicz says
You’re welcome. That is very interesting.
Gina says
I actually found this website while pinning on Pinterest. I searched for “how to care for money trees” I read the article and stumbled across this question. It is exactly what my problem was. The tag said two ice cubes, and now my plant is dying….thank you for the information
Amy Andrychowicz says
Wonderful, glad you found what you were looking for! 🙂
Jo says
I just bought one from Home Depot and it literally doesn’t have any instructions. The lady in the store said to water 2 a day bit clearly that was wrong lol glad I looked it up.
Amy Andrychowicz says
Holy smokes, she said to water your money tree twice a day!?! Yikes, that is definitely not correct, LOL! I’m glad you found this article too! 🙂
P. Lerma says
I just purchased a plant that looks like a bonsai version on the money plant. I took it home from Sam’s Club where I bought it and within two days the leaves had turned black and started to fall off. The plants soil felt moist so I didn’t water it. Plant directions say to water once a week with five ice cubes. Three days later I did water the plant. I gave it a thorough soaking and made sure it had drained properly. I look for insects but found none present. Is this normal??????
Amy Andrychowicz says
Sorry to hear your money plant is struggling! It is normal for them to drop their leaves when they get moved around too much, so it might just be adjusting to it’s new location. Also, the plant may not have received the proper care at the store before you bought it, so it might be suffering from that. I’ve stopped buying plants from big box stores because I’ve had so many problems with them. Oh, and I would NOT recommend using ice cubes to water it. (That is a really weird thing for them to put on the instructions) Plants are very sensitive to hot and cold, and putting ice on top of the soil could harm the plant, especially if it comes into contact with the roots or stems. Use room temperature water to water them.
Gloria says
I just purchase the money tree plant from Sams also. I’m happy you asked this question. How’s your plant doing now and how are watering it
Kathryn says
Thank you for this article; it’s chock full of helpful tips. We received a money plant as a thank you gift recently and it seems to be quite happy living with us. My husband has quite the green thumb.
Amy Andrychowicz says
Awesome! You’re welcome. 🙂