Have you ever wondered if having a money tree was a good idea? Maybe you're not sure what a money tree is, or maybe you're just curious about the benefits. Well, here’s everything you need to know about your potential new financial advisor: the money tree!

First, you’ll learn some basics about these plants and then dive into the history of this fascinating tree. So, whether you're considering getting a money tree or are just curious about them, read on for all the details!

Money Tree

Money Tree

Image credits: Negin Minaei via Shutterstock

The money tree (Pachira aquatica) is a tropical plant that is native to Central and South America. The plant gets its name from the folklore surrounding it, which says that if you take care of this tree, it will bring you fortune.

The money tree is a symbol of good luck in many cultures, making it a common gift for special occasions like weddings, graduations, and new beginnings. This is a popular indoor plant with the potential to be turned into a bonsai when it's first grown. With its braided trunk, this unique tree would make for an interesting addition to your houseplant collection.

The money tree is easy to care for and makes a beautiful addition to any home or office decor. If you're thinking about getting a money tree, or already have one, here's what you need to know about care and maintenance.

Light

Money trees thrive in bright, indirect light. They can tolerate some shade, but not for too long. Too much shade will cause them to lose their beautiful characteristics. If your money tree is getting too much direct sunlight, you'll notice the leaves will scorch, turning yellow or brown.

You can also use grow lights to provide the right kind of lighting for your tree.

Water

Money trees like to be kept moist, but not wet. Allow the top couple inches of soil to dry out before watering your tree again.

If you notice the leaves of your money tree drooping, that may be a sign that it needs to be watered. Be sure to water your tree thoroughly, until water runs out of the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot.

The money tree also thrives in moderate humidity, at around 50 percent. If your home is dry, consider placing your money tree on a tray of wet pebbles.

Soil

Money trees do best in a light, well-draining potting mix. You can find a special bonsai potting mix at your local garden center or nursery, or you can make your own. This can be done by mixing equal parts peat moss, perlite, and organic compost.

Repotting your money tree may also be necessary, but only after two to three years.

Fertilizer

You can fertilize your money tree every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer), using a half-strength solution of a balanced liquid fertilizer. Be sure to follow the directions on the fertilizer package carefully, as too much fertilizer can burn the roots of your tree.

Pruning

Money trees can be pruned to control their size and shape. If you want to encourage your tree to branch out, simply clip off the tips of the branches.

You can also prune away any dead or damaged branches at any time by cutting a couple inches under the diseased portion of the branch.

Temperature

Money trees like warm climates and humid conditions. They will do best if kept at a temperature between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature gets too extreme, the leaves of the tree will drop off.

Propagation

Money trees are propagated from cuttings. To take a cutting, simply cut a 4-inch piece off of a healthy branch with a clean sharp knife or pruning shears. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and plant it in a moistened, peat based potting mix.

Place the pot in a warm, humid location out of direct sunlight, and keep the soil moist. Once it has rooted, you can transplant it into a larger pot.

Brief History of the Money Tree

Money Tree

Image credits: Renata Ty via Shutterstock

The history of the money tree is a fascinating one. This unique plant has been revered for centuries in many cultures for its supposed ability to bring good luck and fortune.

The origins of the money tree are thought to be in Central America, where the plant was first propagated by the Mayan people, who used it in food and medicine.

The money tree eventually made its way to China, where it became a popular symbol of good luck and prosperity.

The plant has long been a popularity in Asia, and has only recently  become popular in the Western world. In the last few years, the money tree has become a popular houseplant in the United States and Europe. Many people believe that this plant can bring them luck and prosperity.

Whether or not the money tree actually has magical powers is up for debate. But, one thing is for sure, this plant has a long and fascinating history that is worth learning about.

Other Common Money Trees

Crassula Ovata flowering succulent

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The money tree is a popular plant in many cultures, with each type having its own unique benefits. Here are some of the most popular other types of money trees:

Theobroma cacao: Native to Central and South America. Theobroma cacao trees are used to produce cocoa beans, which are then used to make chocolate.

Lunaria: Also known as silver dollars. They are a type of money tree that is native to Southeast Europe and Western Asia. Lunaria trees are often used as decorative plants or for their silvery-white leaves.

Crassula ovata: Also known as the jade plant. This type of money tree is native to South Africa. Crassula ovata trees are often used as ornamental plants or for their Jade-like leaves.

Easy Money!

Well, there you have it! Money trees are easy to care for houseplants that might bring good luck your way. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant to spruce up your home or office, a money tree is a great choice. Do you have any tips or tricks for growing these beautiful plants? Share them in the comments below!