The Pachira aquatica (Money Tree plant) originally came from the wetlands in Central and South America and became very popular in Taiwan in the 1980’s. Pachira aquatica usually has a central trunk made up of three, five, or seven stems that are often braided together. The top of the Money Tree has the “lucky” 5 lobed leaf arrangements.
A Money Tree plant grows best in medium to bright indirect light. This plant even does well under fluorescent lights.
Water well and then allow the top 1″- 2″ of soil to dry out before watering again. A Pachira aquatica requires less water during the winter months when resting. Be sure to use a container with bottom drip holes to prevent over- watering and root rot. It’s important to water the soil evenly.
This plant prefers temperatures between 65-75°F (16-24° C.)
A Pachira aquatica likes high humidity. If your home or office is dry, place the plant on a wet pebble tray to increase the humidity. Be sure the plant is sitting on the pebbles and not in the water.
Pests and diseases are rarely a problem.
Be on the look out for Leaf spot, a fungal disease that causes leaf spots and other damage. The disease can be prevented by quickly removing any diseased leaves that fall off, watering well and then not watering again until the soil has dried out somewhat, and keeping the leaves dry. Commercial Fungicide sprays usually help control the problem.
Keeping a Money Tree in a small pot controls its size and is essential when growing a Pachira aquatica as a bonsai plant. If you want a taller and larger plant, repot as soon as the roots have filled the existing container.
Cut off a few of the larger leaves from the bottom of a Money Tree Plant each month to encourage new growth at the top. Pinch back the growing tips at the ends of branches to keep the plant small.
Money Tree Plants are non- Poisonous Houseplants.