Plant Library

Money Tree Plant Care Guide

Pachira aquatica

By the Plantshop.com Editorial Team · Updated · How we research · Report an error

Often sold with a braided trunk, the money tree is a pet-safe, popular gift associated with good fortune.

Buy a money tree 4 verified shops, checked 21 Oct 2026

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Illustration of a money tree in a terracotta pot

Plant profile

Light
Medium to bright indirect light
Water
When the top 2 in is dry
Humidity
Average
Pets
Non-toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA) [ASPCA]
Difficulty
Easy
Size
3-6 ft
Growth
Moderate
Free: 12-month care calendarWhen to water less, feed and repot a money tree, month by month.

Light

Medium to bright indirect light. Rotate the pot every few weeks so growth stays even.

Water

When the top 2 in is dry. Always use a pot with drainage holes and empty the saucer after watering. Plants use far less water in winter.

Humidity and temperature

Humidity: average. Most houseplants prefer 60-80°F (16-27°C) and dislike cold drafts and heating vents.

Soil and feeding

Use a well-draining potting mix with bark or perlite for air. Feed lightly in spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer at half strength; skip feeding in winter.

Our tip

Rotate weekly so the canopy grows evenly.

Common problems

Pets

Non-toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA), according to the ASPCA plant list. Check any plant in our Pet-Safe Plant Checker.

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Free download

Free 12-month plant care calendar

Keeping a money tree happy all year? Get our free month-by-month calendar: when to water less, when to feed, when to repot, and the seasonal notes for all 71 plants in our library.

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Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants
  2. NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Pachira aquatica
  3. RHS: Houseplants, how to grow and care
Where to buyAmazon