There’s a reason the Money Tree plant (Pachira aquatica) is one of the most popular houseplants around the world. With its elegant braided trunk, lush green leaves, and symbolism of good fortune and prosperity, this charming plant isn’t just a beautiful addition to your home — it’s a powerful symbol of positive energy.
Beloved in homes, offices, and feng shui practices, the Money Tree is known to bring wealth, luck, and harmony. Even better? It’s an easy-to-grow, beginner-friendly plant that thrives with just a little care and attention.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to grow a Money Tree, with detailed care tips to help it flourish — and maybe even bring you a little extra luck along the way.
What Is a Money Tree Plant?
Native to Central and South America, the Money Tree plant naturally grows in tropical wetlands but has become a favorite in homes and businesses worldwide. It features glossy green leaves typically grouped in clusters of five to seven, and its trunk is often artistically braided when cultivated indoors.
The plant’s name comes from a folklore tale in which a poor man prayed for wealth and discovered the unique-looking plant. He considered it a sign of good fortune, took it home, and soon became rich by selling its seedlings.
Today, the Money Tree is a popular feng shui symbol believed to attract wealth and prosperity, especially when placed in key areas of your home or workplace.
Best Location for a Money Tree
Light is one of the most important factors for a thriving Money Tree. These plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight. Too much direct sun can scorch the leaves, while too little can slow growth and cause leaf drop.
Ideal Placement:
- Near an east- or south-facing window, filtered by sheer curtains
- In a bright room with indirect natural light
- Away from cold drafts, air conditioners, and heating vents
In feng shui practices, the ideal location for a Money Tree is the wealth corner (southeast) of your home or office.
How to Water a Money Tree
Money Trees don’t like to be overwatered. The key is to water thoroughly but only when the top 1–2 inches of soil feels dry.
Watering Tips:
- Use filtered, room-temperature water
- Ensure the pot has good drainage holes
- Water every 7–10 days in warmer months, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in cooler seasons
- Avoid letting the plant sit in water to prevent root rot
- Empty any excess water from the saucer after watering
Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes plant owners make with Money Trees — so always check the soil before adding more water.
Best Soil and Potting Mix
The Money Tree thrives in a well-draining potting mix that keeps moisture balanced without becoming soggy.
Recommended Soil Mix:
- A peat-based potting soil combined with perlite or sand
- Cactus or succulent soil mix with added organic matter
A breathable pot with drainage holes is essential to prevent water buildup at the roots.
Ideal Temperature and Humidity
As a tropical plant, the Money Tree enjoys warm, humid environments.
Ideal Conditions:
- Temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C)
- Humidity: 50–60% is ideal; mist the leaves or use a humidifier if your home’s air is dry
Avoid cold drafts, sudden temperature shifts, and direct exposure to heating or cooling vents.
Pruning and Shaping Your Money Tree
Regular pruning helps your Money Tree grow fuller and healthier.
How to Prune:
- Use clean, sharp pruning shears
- Trim yellow, brown, or damaged leaves as needed
- Cut back overly long or leggy branches during the growing season (spring or early summer)
- Remove any leaves growing downward or crossing over others to maintain an open, balanced shape
If you have a braided trunk, you can occasionally adjust and tighten the braids while the plant is still flexible.
When and How to Repot a Money Tree
A Money Tree typically needs repotting every 2–3 years or when it outgrows its current pot.
Repotting Tips:
- Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one
- Use fresh, well-draining potting soil
- Gently remove the plant and loosen the root ball
- Trim away any dead or rotten roots
- Place in the new pot, fill in soil, and water lightly
- Return to a bright, indirect light spot
Repotting is best done in the spring or early summer to minimize plant stress.
Fertilizing for Healthy Growth
During its active growing season (spring and summer), a Money Tree benefits from monthly feeding.
Best Fertilizer:
- A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (10-10-10 or 20-20-20)
- Diluted to half the recommended strength
Skip fertilizing in fall and winter while the plant is dormant.
Propagating a Money Tree
While Money Tree propagation can be a little trickier than other houseplants, it’s possible through stem cuttings.
How to Propagate:
- Take a healthy 6-inch cutting from a branch with at least 2–3 leaf nodes
- Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder (optional)
- Plant the cutting in a pot with moist, well-draining soil
- Cover loosely with a clear plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse
- Place in a warm, bright spot away from direct sun
- Keep soil lightly moist, not soggy
- New roots should form within 4–6 weeks
Common Money Tree Problems and Fixes
Even easy-care plants like the Money Tree can run into occasional issues.
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Yellowing leaves | Overwatering or poor drainage | Let soil dry out, improve drainage |
| Drooping leaves | Underwatering or low humidity | Water thoroughly, mist leaves |
| Brown leaf tips | Dry air, fluoride in water | Use filtered water, increase humidity |
| Root rot | Excess water, soggy soil | Trim roots, repot in dry, fresh soil |
| Pest infestations (spider mites, mealybugs) | Dry conditions | Wipe leaves with soapy water, apply neem oil |
Feng Shui and Money Tree Symbolism
In feng shui philosophy, Money Trees are believed to bring wealth, luck, and positive energy. To maximize its benefits:
- Place it in the wealth corner (southeast area of your home or office)
- Keep it healthy and clean, as a neglected plant is believed to block good fortune
- Avoid placing it in bathrooms or cluttered areas
Final Thoughts
The Money Tree plant is far more than just a decorative houseplant — it’s a symbol of prosperity, resilience, and good fortune. Whether you choose it for its symbolism, air-purifying qualities, or striking appearance, this tropical beauty is easy to care for and rewarding to grow.
By following these simple growing tips — providing bright, indirect light, balanced watering, occasional feeding, and regular pruning — your Money Tree will thrive for years, bringing beauty and maybe a little extra luck into your home.
So go ahead — give your space a touch of natural fortune and good vibes with a vibrant, healthy Money Tree.
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