Money Tree Care Guide - How To Grow Pachira aquatica

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.

How To Care For A Money Tree Plant (Pachira aquatica)

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.

Table of Contents

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!

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.

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.

New growth after pruning money tree plant

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!

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Share your money tree care tips in the comments section below.