Beginner

money tree

aka pachira aquatica

Money Trees originated from Central and South America. The braided trunk of the tree isn’t naturally occurring. This feature is created by cultivators braiding young trees manually.

variations

Variations include Malabar Chestnut, Provision Tree, Guiana Chestnut and French Peanut.

light

avoid direct sunlight

Too much direct sunlight will cause the leaves to curl, yellow or burn.

water + feeding

water when dry

However, these plants can still do well without watering too frequently.

toxic

safe for humans and pets

Money Trees are even recommended for people with allergies or asthma.

location

adaptable

Although it’s recommended not to keep this plant in your bathroom because it’s believed this will “flush” good vibes away.

humidity

love it!

Money Trees appreciate a humid climate, with about 50% humidity.

size

small to medium

At home, your money tree could grow between 3 to 5 feet. In the wild, these trees can grow up to 60 feet tall.

pro tip

get a humidifier

Prevent yellowing and dying leaves by increasing the humidity in the plant’s environment.

fun fact

popular in feng shui

This plant usually sprouts 5 leaves on a stem, and 5 is a very important number in Feng Shui.

beyond the basics

  • soil + potting

    Money Trees need a sandy, peat-moss based soil. Consider adding Miracle-Gro® Sphagnum Peat Moss to your plant’s soil. Don’t forget to use a pot with drainage!

  • when to repot

    Money Trees usually need to be repotted every three years. The best time to repot is during the spring time, to promote growth. While you can cut back on some root growth, be sure not to take off more than 25% of the roots.

  • propagation

    The best way to propagate your Money Tree is through a cutting. Take your 6 inch branch cutting, with several leaf nodes, and allow to root in water. Promptly transfer to a soil mixture with peat moss.

  • pest control

    Money Trees are very attractive to aphids and mealybugs. You can use a gentle insecticide like Ortho® Bug B Gon® ECO Insecticide Ready-to-use to prevent these creepy crawlies from returning.

troubleshooting

  • why are my plant’s leaves drooping or turning yellow?

    Watering issues. If your Money Tree’s leaves are drooping it could be as simple as inconsistent watering. Keep a schedule and check the soil’s moisture level to understand its needs. If the leaves are yellowing, it’s likely due to overwatering. It’s time to water when the top 2 to 4 inches of soil are dry.

  • why is my plant’s trunk spongey and soft?

    Sounds like root rot. This happens when a fungus has attacked your plant’s roots and is a sign that you’ve been overwatering. Root rot can be fatal if it’s not caught early. The best chance you can give your Money Tree for survival is to repot immediately, removing as much old soil as possible.

  • what is this gross, sticky sap?

    Guttation. This it totally normal! If the rest of your Money Tree looks healthy, there’s nothing to worry about. But… if you see little dark bumps on your plant, it could be a pest infestation.

  • why are my plant’s leaves curling?

    Overwatering. Avoid excessive watering and finger test your plant’s soil when you’re about to water. Make sure you’re only watering when the first 2 to 4 inches of soil are dry.

  • why are my plant’s leaves falling?

    Too much sunlight. Too much bright, direct sunlight can cause your Money Tree to drop leaves. Another common cause is if your Money Tree has recently moved to its new home. Dropping a few leaves as your plant adjusts to its new home is totally normal.

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