Care Instructions for Money Trees

Money trees are native to South American swamps.

The money tree, or Pachira aquatica, originates from the South American swampy regions. In its natural habitat, the money tree can grow up to 60 feet in height. The money tree is an evergreen and features green-brown bark, bright green, five-lobed leaves and edible fruit known as the Malabar chestnut. In certain Chinese and feng shui cultures, the money tree is thought to bring prosperity to the owner. The easy care and low maintenance that the money tree requires makes this tree an excellent indoor plant.

Things You'll Need

• Money tree plant
• Well-draining potting mix (such as cacti soil)
• All-purpose fertilizer
• Spray bottle
• Organic pesticide

Instructions

1. Select a container for the money tree that is at least two times wider and deeper than the root ball. Money trees need to be replanted in a slightly bigger container every two years to accommodate root growth. Lay a 2- to 3-inch layer of well-draining potting soil, such as a cacti potting mix. Cacti potting mix includes materials such as perlite, granite and pumice rocks to aid in water drainage. Place the money tree on top of the potting mix layer and fill in the container with the rest of the potting mix until the tree is completely planted.

2. Place the money tree in a location that receives indirect sunlight or full shade. Indirect sunlight is light that is filtered through a window that comes into a room. Wilting of money tree leaves may be an indication of too much shade, so place the tree next to a sunny window.

3. Water the money tree consistently, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged or dry. Supply adequate humidity by lightly misting the foliage of the money tree daily. If space allows, money trees can be placed in bathrooms, where the warm moisture from showers will reach the tree. Feed the money tree an all-purpose fertilizer once a month according to fertilizer's manufacturer instructions.

4. Harvest the money tree nuts when the seedpods have burst open. Money tree nuts are edible and bear a similar taste to common peanuts.

Tips & Warnings

• If your money tree comes already braided, keep braiding the trunk as the stems grow to keep the same appearance. Money trees require no pruning to stay healthy.

• Although the money tree is largely free of diseases and pests, container trees may need to be sprayed with organic pesticides once certain indoor plant insects appear such as spider mites and mealybugs.

References

• Gardenology.org: Pachira aquatica (Money Tree)