Money Tree
Pachira aquatica · Malvaceae
- Light
- Medium to bright-indirect
- Water
- Moderate
- Humidity
- Average
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pet-safe
- Yes
- Propagation
- Stem Cuttings, Seed
Common problems: Root RotSpider MitesScale InsectsFungus Gnats
Quick facts
- Light: Medium to bright indirect · Water: When top 2-3 inches dry · Humidity: Average
- Difficulty: Easy
- Pet-safe: Yes
Description
A popular indoor tree with a braided trunk, smooth bark, and glossy leaflets arranged like a hand. It reads tropical but is usually much more forgiving indoors than it looks, especially once you stop overwatering it.
Care
- Light: Bright indirect is ideal, but it tolerates medium light well.
- Water: Let the top couple inches dry before watering thoroughly. Soggy soil is the fastest way to ruin it.
- Soil & potting: Well-draining houseplant mix in a pot with drainage.
- Humidity & temperature: Average indoor humidity is fine. Keep away from cold drafts.
- Feeding: Light feeding spring-summer.
- Repotting / propagation: Repot when rootbound; braided forms often stay compact for years.
Propagation
Usually from stem cuttings or seed, though home growers are more likely to buy established plants than propagate them. Cuttings root best in warmth and steady humidity. See Propagation Basics.
Toxicity
Generally treated as pet-safe. Houseplant references and ASPCA-style listings commonly treat money tree as non-toxic to cats and dogs, though any chewed plant material can still cause stomach upset.
Common ailments, afflictions & pests
Click any item for how to identify and treat it.
- Root Rot — yellowing, trunk softening, or leaf drop from wet soil.
- Spider Mites — stippling and fine webbing in dry air.
- Scale Insects — bumps on stems and undersides of leaves.
- Fungus Gnats — a sign the potting mix is staying too wet.
See also: Diagnose a Problem.