Money Tree Pachira aquatica
At a glance
- Light
- Bright indirect
- 5000–15000 lux
- Water
- Every 7–14 days
- Top 5cm of soil
- Humidity
- 40–60%
- Tolerates dry air
- Temperature
- 16–27°C
- Ideal 18–24°C
- Soil pH
- 6–7.5
- well-draining
- Mature size
- 200 cm tall
- 100 cm wide
- Native to
- Central America, South America, Tropical wetlands
- Growth
- Moderate
- Tree
Watering calculator
Estimate how often to water your Money Tree based on pot size, light, and season.
Always check the top 2 cm of soil before watering. Calculator output is an estimate, not a schedule.
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Compare with similar plants
| Trait | Money Tree Pachira aquatica | Fiddle Leaf Fig Ficus lyrata | Rubber Plant Ficus elastica |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light | Bright indirect | Bright indirect | Bright indirect |
| Water | 7–14 days | 7–10 days | 7–14 days |
| Pet safe | Pet-safe | Toxic to cats and dogs | Toxic to cats and dogs |
| Difficulty | Easy | Challenging | Easy |
| Mature size | 200 cm | 250 cm | 250 cm |
Light requirements in detail
Money Tree prefers bright indirect (5000–15000 lux) . Tolerates medium light; rotate weekly for even growth and to prevent leaning
A spot 1–2 meters from a bright east or south-facing window usually fits this range. Direct afternoon sun through unfiltered glass can scorch leaves; sheer curtains help diffuse it.
Watering in detail
Water Money Tree every 7– 14 days during the growing season, allowing Top 5cm of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter when growth slows.
Consistent moisture matters here — long dry spells will show up as crispy leaf edges.
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Frequently asked questions about Money Tree
How often should I water Money Tree?
Water Money Tree every 7–14 days during the growing season, allowing Top 5cm of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency by 30–50% in winter.
What kind of light does Money Tree need?
Money Tree prefers bright indirect (5000–15000 lux). Tolerates medium light; rotate weekly for even growth and to prevent leaning
Is Money Tree toxic to cats?
Money Tree is non-toxic to cats according to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Mild stomach upset is still possible if a cat chews the leaves, but it will not cause poisoning.
Is Money Tree toxic to dogs?
Money Tree is non-toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Mild stomach upset is still possible if a dog chews the leaves.
How big does Money Tree grow?
Money Tree reaches about 200 cm tall and 100 cm wide at maturity. Growth rate is moderate.