Money Tree
Pachira aquatica
AKA: Guiana Chestnut, Malabar Chestnut
easy
medium water
medium, bright_indirect
Pet safe
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.
Care snapshot
☀️ Light
Medium, Bright Indirect
💧 Water
Medium
💨 Humidity
Medium
📈 Growth
Moderate
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
- Cut a healthy stem with at least one node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place cutting in water or moist soil.
- Roots typically form within 3–6 weeks.
Money Tree Problems (Fast Fix Guide)
Yellow leaves
Cause: Overwatering
Fix: Allow soil to dry more between waterings
Leaf drop
Cause: Cold drafts or sudden changes
Fix: Move to a stable warm location
Leggy growth
Cause: Low light
Fix: Increase bright indirect light
Pet Safety
- Money trees are considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.
- Always supervise pets around plants.
When the top 2 inches of soil are dry.
They tolerate medium light but grow best in bright indirect light.
Usually due to overwatering, cold drafts, or sudden changes in light.
Yes. It is generally considered non-toxic.
Video tips
Extra reading
FAQ
When the top 2 inches of soil are dry.
They tolerate medium light but grow best in bright indirect light.
Usually due to overwatering, cold drafts, or sudden changes in light.
Yes. It is generally considered non-toxic.
