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Plant Profiles / Money tree
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Money tree
Pachira aquatica (most sold are P. glabra) · Guiana chestnut, braided money tree
A cheerful indoor tree with glossy hand-shaped leaves, often sold with a braided trunk. Believed to bring good fortune and loved for its easy-going nature.
Bright indirectLight
Every 1–2 weeksWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Bright indirect
ShadeFull sun
Bright, indirect light is ideal; tolerates medium light. Rotate regularly to prevent leaning.
Water
Every 1–2 weeks
DryWet
Water thoroughly when the top half of the soil is dry. Reduce in winter.
Humidity
Average to high
LowHigh
Appreciates humidity; brown edges suggest dry air.
Temperature
16–29°C (60–85°F)
CoolWarm
Keep above 10°C (50°F) and away from draughts.
Growth
Moderate, tree
SlowFast
Grows 1–2 m indoors.
Soil
Peat-free, well-draining
LeanRich
Use a quality indoor potting mix with added perlite.
Fertiliser
Monthly, spring–summer
RarelyOften
Balanced liquid fertiliser at half strength during the growing season.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
About this plant
Native to Central and South American wetlands, money trees store water in their swollen trunk bases. Braided trunks are made by growing several young stems together. It tolerates a range of indoor light and is safe for pets, making it a popular gift.
Best spots
Living rooms, offices, entryways and bright bedrooms.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Pachira aquatica (most sold are P. glabra) |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Origin | Central & South America |
| Plant type | Evergreen tree |
| Mature size (indoors) | 1–2 m |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Foliage | Glossy, palmate leaves with 5–7 leaflets |
| Flowers | Rarely indoors |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Stem cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Active growth
Fertilise
Water more
Repot
Active growthFertiliseWater moreRepot
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Yellow leaves | Overwatering. Let soil dry more between drinks. |
| Leaf drop | Moved recently or cold draughts. Keep conditions stable. |
| Soft trunk | Root or trunk rot. Remove the affected stem and reduce watering. |
| Brown, crispy tips | Low humidity or underwatering. |
| Leaning | Rotate a quarter turn every few weeks. |
Common questions
Will it really bring money?
In feng shui it's said to bring prosperity. At the very least it brings greenery.
Can I unbraid the trunk?
No; it's best left as is. You can loosen any ties if they're cutting in.
Is it safe for pets?
Yes, it's non-toxic.
How often should I repot?
Every 2–3 years in spring.
