Money tree with braided trunk and glossy green leaves indoors

Money Tree

Complete Care Guide

Pachira aquatica

Money trees are popular, easy-care indoor trees with a braided trunk and glossy palmate leaves. They prefer bright indirect light, moderate watering, and stable indoor conditions.

EasyMedium humidityPet-safer choice
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Care varies with climate, season, roots and indoor conditions. Check your plant and soil before watering.

Money Tree Care at a Glance

Money trees are stylish, beginner-friendly houseplants often associated with good luck and prosperity.

Best For

  • Bright rooms
  • Offices
  • Beginners
  • Feng Shui decor

Not Great For

  • Low light rooms
  • Overwatering habits
  • Cold environments

Light Requirements

Bright indirect light keeps growth compact and healthy. Rotate the plant occasionally for even growth.

How to Water a Money Tree

Allow the soil surface to dry before watering again. Overwatering is the most common cause of yellow leaves and trunk issues.

Watering Tips

  • Always use a pot with drainage holes.
  • Reduce watering in winter.
  • Empty saucers after watering.

Humidity & Environment

Money trees prefer moderate humidity but adapt well to average indoor air. Avoid placing near heaters or air conditioners.

Braided Trunks

Braiding is done when plants are young and flexible. Do not attempt to braid mature, woody trunks.

How to Propagate Money Tree

  1. Cut a healthy stem with at least one node.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Place cutting in water or moist soil.
  4. Roots typically form within 3–6 weeks.

Money Tree Problems (Fast Fix Guide)

Yellow leaves

Possible contributor: Overwatering

Try after checking: Allow soil to dry more between waterings

Symptoms overlap. Check soil moisture, light and roots before treating.

Leaf drop

Possible contributor: Cold drafts or sudden changes

Try after checking: Move to a stable warm location

Symptoms overlap. Check soil moisture, light and roots before treating.

Leggy growth

Possible contributor: Low light

Try after checking: Increase bright indirect light

Symptoms overlap. Check soil moisture, light and roots before treating.

Pet Safety

  • Money trees are considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.
  • Always supervise pets around plants.

More ways to learn

These links open external video sites.

TikTok care videos

FAQ

How often should I water a money tree?

When the top 2 inches of soil are dry.

Can money trees grow in low light?

They tolerate medium light but grow best in bright indirect light.

Why is my money tree losing leaves?

Usually due to overwatering, cold drafts, or sudden changes in light.

Is the money tree safe for pets?

Yes. It is generally considered non-toxic.

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