Pachira

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Regno	Plantae
Sottoregno	Tracheobionta
Superdivisione	Spermatophyta
Divisione	Magnoliophyta
Classe	Magnoliopsida
Ordine	Malvales
Famiglia	Malvaceae
Sottofamiglia	Bombacoideae
Genere	Pachira

Luce

Medium high

Acqua

Medium high

Specie

Money Tree, scientifically known as Pachira aquatica, is a popular indoor plant known for its distinctive braided trunk and lush, green foliage. It is believed to bring good luck and prosperity according to Feng Shui principles. Native to Central and South America, it thrives in warm, humid environments and is widely cultivated as a decorative houseplant.

Habitat naturale

Money Trees originate from tropical regions of Central and South America, where they grow in wetlands and along riverbanks. They prefer high humidity and thrive in moist, well-draining soil under partial shade or indirect light.

Storia e cultura

In Feng Shui, Money Trees are considered symbols of good luck and prosperity, especially when braided. They are often placed in homes and offices to attract positive energy and financial success.

Utilizzi

Money Trees are primarily grown as ornamental houseplants due to their attractive appearance and cultural significance. Their braided trunks and shiny, palmate leaves make them a favorite choice for indoor décor.

Conservazione

While widely cultivated, wild populations of Pachira aquatica face threats such as habitat loss and deforestation in their native habitats. Sustainable cultivation practices are encouraged to protect their natural diversity.

Specie e varietà (1)

Pachira aquatica

Medium high 2 cultivar

Guida alla cura

Luce

Prefers bright, indirect light — near a window without direct harsh midday sun. Tolerates moderate shade but grows more slowly. Rotate the pot 90° every few weeks to promote even growth on all sides, as the stems lean toward the light source.

Acqua

Allow the top half of the soil to dry between waterings, then water thoroughly. Money Tree stores water in its swollen trunk base and is moderately drought-tolerant. Overwatering is the most common fatal mistake — yellowing leaves and mushy stem base indicate root rot. In winter, reduce watering significantly. Ensure the pot has excellent drainage and never sits in standing water.

Substrato

Use a well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand (3:1). The mix must drain quickly — the trunk stores water and the roots are prone to rot in consistently wet conditions.

Temperatura e umidità

Optimal 18–27 °C; minimum 10 °C. Moderate humidity is ideal; avoid extremely dry air near radiators. Sensitive to cold drafts.

Concimazione

Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer (half strength). Do not fertilize in autumn or winter.

Potatura

Prune to maintain the desired shape and size. The braided trunk is an artificial feature created by nurseries when the stems are young and flexible — it does not grow back if cut. Prune the canopy rather than the trunks. Money Tree sheds leaves in response to overwatering, underwatering, cold or position changes — adjust conditions and be patient.

Propagazione

Talea

Money Trees can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or early summer.

Take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy stem just below a node.

Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional).

Plant the cutting in a pot with moist, well-draining soil.

Place the pot in indirect light and keep the soil consistently moist until roots develop.

Propaggine

Air layering is another method suited for Money Trees.

Select a healthy branch and make a shallow cut in the middle of the branch.

Wrap moist sphagnum moss around the cut and cover with plastic wrap.

Secure the moss and plastic with twine or rubber bands.

Roots will form within a few weeks. Once roots are established, cut below the roots and plant in a separate container.

Domande frequenti

Why is my Money Tree dropping leaves?

Leaf drop is the Money Tree's stress response. The most common trigger is overwatering — check that the soil is dry halfway down before watering. Cold drafts, position changes and inconsistent watering are secondary causes.

Will the braided trunk of my Money Tree keep growing braided?

No. The braid is shaped by nurseries when multiple young seedlings are planted together and intertwined while their stems are still flexible. New growth at the top will be straight and unbranched. To maintain the look, only prune the upper canopy.

Is Money Tree toxic?

Pachira aquatica is considered non-toxic to cats, dogs and humans, making it a pet-safe choice among tropical houseplants.

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