Money tree
Pachira aquatica
Also known as: Pachira aquatica, Guiana chestnut, Malabar chestnut, money plant, braided money tree
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How do you care for a money tree?
Light: Indirect light or a mix of sun and shade; direct sun can scorch the leaves. Water: Moist, well-drained mix of peat moss, perlite, loam or sand. Standing water causes root rot. It is non-toxic to cats and dogs.
About Money tree
Money tree (Pachira aquatica) is a tropical tree from southern Mexico to northern South America, usually sold with braided trunks. Indoors it typically stays 1.8–2.4 m (6–8 ft) tall. NC State Extension recommends indirect light (direct sun can scorch the leaves), a moist but well-drained mix, and never leaving it in standing water, which causes root rot. The ASPCA lists it as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Money tree quick facts
- Botanical name
- Pachira aquatica
- Family
- Malvaceae (mallow family)
- Native to
- Southern Mexico to Bolivia and northern Brazil
- Light
- Indirect light or a mix of sun and shade; direct sun can scorch the leaves.
- Water
- Moist, well-drained mix of peat moss, perlite, loam or sand. Standing water causes root rot.
- Temperature
- Protect from temperatures below about 7 °C (45 °F).
- Size
- Usually 1.8–2.4 m (6–8 ft) as a houseplant.
- Flowers
- Does not flower indoors or when braided.
- Propagation
- Softwood cuttings, layering or seed.
- Cats and dogs
- Non-toxic. The ASPCA lists money tree as non-toxic to dogs, cats and horses. NC State Extension notes the seeds can upset cats' stomachs, but houseplants do not produce seeds. Source: ASPCA
Sources: NC State Extension: Pachira aquatica; ASPCA: Money Tree
Money Tree care at a glance
- Light
- Bright indirect. Wants bright, indirect light — sensitive to both extremes. Too much direct sun causes burns, too little causes stretching. Grow lights: Thrives under artificial grow lights (LED or fluorescent, 10-12 hours/day). A great option if your space lacks natural light.
- Watering
- Let the soil dry out significantly between waterings — this plant is very sensitive to overwatering. When in doubt, wait another day.
- Humidity
- Loves higher humidity (60%+). If your air is dry, group it with other plants, use a pebble tray, or run a humidifier nearby.
- Temperature
- Standard room temperature (60-80°F / 15-27°C) is perfect. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature swings.
- Soil
- Needs well-draining soil — add perlite or orchid bark to a standard potting mix. Good drainage is critical to prevent root rot.
- Pets
- The ASPCA lists money tree as non-toxic to dogs, cats and horses. NC State Extension notes the seeds can upset cats' stomachs, but houseplants do not produce seeds.
- Difficulty
- Beginner friendly
Common money tree problems, answered
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Money Tree Brown Tips: Dry Air, Sun, Water or Salts?
Brown, brittle leaf tips on a money tree usually come from dry air, direct sun, uneven watering or salt buildup in the mix. Tips that turn yellow, then tan, then dark brown and keep spreading can point to anthracnose, a fungal disease.
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Money Tree Root Rot: How to Check, Trim and Fix It
Money tree root rot follows a pot that holds standing water or stays wet for long spells. Leaves yellow, brown or wilt while the mix is damp, a trunk may soften at the base, and the roots turn brown to black and mushy. NC State notes that despite its swamp origins, Pachira does not tolerate standing water.
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Money Tree Yellow Leaves: Wet Roots, Dry Air or Hunger?
Yellow money tree leaves most often trace back to the pot: mix that stays wet or water left standing in the saucer. NC State Extension also links yellowing to low humidity and too few nutrients. A move, a dry spell or a pot-bound root ball are the other common causes.
Questions about Money tree
Is money tree toxic to cats and dogs?
The ASPCA lists money tree as non-toxic to dogs, cats and horses. NC State Extension notes the seeds can upset cats' stomachs, but houseplants do not produce seeds.
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