The Money tree care is easier than many think. The popular houseplant, botanically Pachira aquatica, comes from the tropical regions of Central and South America – including Peru and Brazil. There it grows as a tree and can reach up to 20 meters high. Indoors it remains much more compact but develops a strong trunk and a decorative crown.
Characteristic are the hand-shaped arranged leaves and often braided trunk. In Asia, the money tree is considered a symbol of prosperity and luck. To keep the plant healthy long-term, light, water amount, and a well-draining substrate are important.
Location & light requirements of the money tree
The money tree needs a lot of light but cannot tolerate direct sun. Ideal is a bright location with indirect light. A spot near an east or west window is especially suitable. At a south-facing window, a light curtain should be in front of direct sunlight protect.
A semi-shady location is possible as long as there is enough brightness. Too little light causes the money tree to drop leaves or form long, unstable shoots. Drafts should be avoided as they promote leaf fall.
Since Pachira comes from tropical regions, it prefers high humidity. Dry air – especially from heating air in winter – can cause brown leaves. Those who want to increase humidity can occasionally spray the leaves with low-lime water.
Ideal temperatures for Pachira aquatica
|
Period |
Optimal |
Tolerated short-term |
Critical |
|
Spring & Summer |
18–25 degrees Celsius |
up to 28 °C |
constant heat + direct sun |
|
Autumn & Winter |
16–20 °C |
12–15 °C |
below 12 degrees |
|
Summer outdoors |
18–25 °C |
– |
Frost / cold nights |
From May to August, the houseplant can be placed outdoors in a wind- and rain-protected spot. Important: no direct sunlight.
Watering the money tree – avoid waterlogging
On the topic of watering and fertilizing watering is crucial. The thickened trunk of the money tree can store water. Therefore, too frequent watering is the most common care mistake.
The soil should dry out superficially before the next watering. The substrate should be evenly moist, but never wet. Waterlogging quickly leads to root rot. Therefore, remove excess water from the saucer.
In summer, the money tree is usually watered once a week. In autumn and winter, much less frequently. The cooler the location, the less water the plant needs.
Signs of incorrect watering:
-
Yellow leaves → often too much water
-
Brown leaves → often dry air or sun
-
Soft stem → usually waterlogging
-
Leaves falling → combination of lack of light and moisture
If the money tree is regularly overwatered, the substrate can smell musty. In this case, it should be repotted.
Repotting money tree – substrate and pot choice
A money tree should be repotted every two to three years is suitable as substrate for repotting. The best time is spring. If roots grow out of the pot or the soil is heavily compacted, a larger pot is necessary.
Loose potting soil with good drainage. Important is a well-draining soilso that excess water can drain away. A mix of potting soil and mineral components like clay granules ensures stability and air at the roots.
A pot that is too large stores unnecessary moisture. Therefore, choose only a slightly larger pot. After repotting, water moderately and do not fertilize for a few weeks.
Fertilizing the money tree – moderate care
Fertilization is mainly done in spring and summer. Between May and August, it is sufficient to feed the plant every two to four weeks with a mild green plant fertilizer. Less is more here.
In autumn and winter, little or no fertilization is done. Too much fertilizer can lead to salt deposits in the substrate and root damage.
A nutrient deficiency shows as pale foliage. If new leaves remain small, a deficiency may also be present. Then an appropriate fertilization helps.
air-purifying effect – what does the NASA Clean Air Study say?
In connection with houseplants, the NASA Clean Air Study mentioned. This study tested how plants can reduce pollutants in closed laboratory rooms.
The plant contributes to improving the room atmosphere through evaporation. Several houseplants can noticeably improve indoor air quality.
Common problems: causes & solutions
Yellow leaves
Usually a sign of waterlogging. Check the substrate. If it remains constantly moist, reduce the amount of water.
Brown leaves
Often a result of dry air or direct sunlight. Check the location and increase humidity.
Money tree leaves falling off
Possible causes are drafts, lack of light, or sudden changes in location. Cold temperatures below 12 degrees also cause leaf loss.
pests
A common pests are Spider mites, especially in dry air. They appear as fine webs and silvery spots. Scale insects are usually found in leaf axils and look like small brown lumps. Detect early and remove mechanically.
Wilted or dry leaves
These can be easily removed. Regular pruning is not necessary.
