Money Tree

Have you ever heard about the money tree plant? Money trees are simply amazing! They add a natural and refreshing touch of greenery to any room and serve as a striking centerpiece in every garden. The best part? With proper care, they are known to bring good luck and financial prosperity, as the leaves are shaped like coins. Adding a money tree to your home or garden can be the perfect way to invite wealth and happiness into your life.

Common Names:

• Money tree
• Money plant
• Jade plant
• Friendship tree

The Fascinating World of the Money Tree Plant

The money tree plant, or Pachira Aquatica, can grow up to 59 feet tall in its natural habitat in Central and South America. The plant is a member of the Bombacaceae family, which is why some also refer to it as the Bombax Family. The biggest appeal of the money tree is the thick stem that grows straight up and a crown of glossy divided leaves at the top. The leaves resemble the shape of a coin and hence symbolize wealth and good fortune.

Among the Chinese, this plant has become highly symbolic of wealth and prosperity, and it is often gifted to friends and family with the hope that wealth will come into their lives. No wonder it is also known as the “Feng Shui Plant”. While the history of the money tree plant is interesting, so is its use as an indoor and outdoor plant.

Money Trees in Interiors and as Outside Plants

Money trees have become incredibly popular as indoor plants because they are easy to care for and can thrive in all sorts of conditions. They make perfect kitchen, living room, and office plants due to their striking appearance and the feng shui symbolism. They also grow well outdoors in tropical climates like Hawaii, Florida, and Costa Rica where they can be found in public and private gardens.

The plant is so popular that it has become a common sight all over the world, adding elegance to your interiors as well as some good fortune. As an outdoor plant, it can be as tall as a tree or half the size of one. The money tree’s unique beauty is one of the main reasons for its popularity. Whether it's placed indoors or outdoors, the plant can provide a soothing and natural ambiance to any setting.

Money Tree Care

Money trees are one of the easiest plants to grow and maintain, requiring minimal maintenance and care. However, some proper care methods can help them thrive and last longer, especially if you want to see them bear fruit shaped like pods that contain edible nuts. Compared to other plants, the money tree is relatively easy to maintain as it is adaptable to different environmental conditions and is resistant to most pests.

Sunlight Requirements:

In general, the money plant prefers bright, indirect light. They can also survive in low to medium light conditions but must be kept away from direct sunlight. If you want your plant to grow taller, provide it with bright indirect light for at least four hours per day.

Water Requirements:

Money trees need to be watered once a week or when the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering results in wrinkly and brown leaves.

Humidity Requirements:

The money tree plant prefers moderate to high humidity. If the air in your home or office is particularly dry, consider using a humidifier or placing a bowl of water near the plant.

Temperature Requirements:

The money tree plant can tolerate a range of temperatures from 60°F to 85°F. Avoid exposing it to temperatures below 50°F and direct heat – it can scorch the leaves or damage the plant.

Soil Requirements:

The money tree plant benefits from a well-draining potting mix. The soil should consist of equal parts peat moss, perlite, and sand. Adding compost to the soil occasionally helps improve the soil fertility and drainage.

Propagation:

You can propagate the money tree plant by taking cuttings and placing them in water or directly into potting soil. Cut a stem tip with a node or two and let it dry for a day or two before planting it. Place the cutting in water and wait until roots appear or plant it immediately in the soil and water thoroughly.

Common Problems and Pests:

Some of the common problems that you may face with your money tree plant are yellowing leaves, root rot, and fungal diseases. To prevent this, avoid overwatering, make sure there is proper drainage, and maintain a good circulation of air. Mealybugs and scale insects are two common pests that affect the health of the plant. To deal with the pests, wipe the leaves with soapy water or use a neem oil solution.

Now that you know how easy it is to care for a money tree plant, you can bring one into your home for some extra prosperity. With its attractive appearance and symbol of good fortune, the money tree can bring some excitement and natural beauty into your life.

Header image by @obsessed_plantmama, featured image by @plantsandmoreplus, and profile picture by @ho_me_jardin.