Pachira aquatica

Pachira aquatica

Money Tree

●

Taxonomy

Family Malvaceae · Genus Pachira

Common Names

Money TreeGuiana ChestnutMalabar ChestnutSaba NutProvision TreeFrench Peanut

Context

nativeRegion

Central and Northern South America (swampy areas from Mexico to Brazil).

usdaZones

10–12 (outdoors); commonly grown indoors elsewhere.

companionPlants

Dieffenbachia, Schefflera, Chamaedorea elegans, Anthurium

culturalUses

Known as the 'Money Tree' in East Asia, symbolizing good fortune and prosperity; popular as a decorative and feng shui plant.

Care

LightPrefers bright, indirect light but tolerates lower light conditions. Avoid direct intense sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.

WateringWater thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry. Reduce watering in winter. Avoid letting the plant sit in water to prevent root rot.

SoilWell-draining, rich soil such as a peat-based potting mix with added perlite or sand.

FertilizerFeed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).

HumidityPrefers high humidity but tolerates average indoor levels. Mist occasionally or use a humidity tray if air is dry.

TemperatureIdeal range is 18–28°C (65–82°F). Protect from cold drafts and avoid temperatures below 10°C (50°F).

HabitEvergreen, fast-growing tree with glossy palmate leaves; often sold as a braided-trunk specimen when young.

Mature SizeIndoor plants: 1.5–2.5 m (5–8 ft); can reach up to 18 m (60 ft) outdoors in native range.

Growth RateModerate to fast under optimal conditions.

BloomingMay produce showy, cream-colored flowers in outdoor/tropical conditions; rarely flowers indoors.

DormancyNo true dormancy, but growth slows in winter.

MethodsStem cuttings, Seeds (less common indoors)

DifficultyEasy to moderate, especially with cuttings.

Best SeasonSpring or early summer.

PruningPrune to control size, shape, and encourage a fuller plant. Remove yellow or damaged leaves as needed.

RepottingRepot every 2–3 years or when roots become pot-bound, in early spring.

Pests & DiseasesGenerally hardy, but may encounter spider mites, mealybugs, or root rot if overwatered.

ToxicityNon-toxic to humans and pets.

No public plants yet.