Braided Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)
Braided Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)
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A braided money tree brings instant presence to a room: several slender trunks woven into one, topped with glossy leaves that fan out like open hands. It's easy to care for, adapts to most homes, and is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. Choose anything from a 6-inch desk tree to a 4-foot floor plant.
Which size is right for you?
| Size | Height | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Mini · 3" pot | 6–10 in | Desks, nightstands, small shelves |
| Small · 4" pot | 8–14 in | Windowsills, bookshelves |
| Medium · 6" pot | 14–24 in | Side tables, dressers, kitchen counters |
| Large · 8" pot | 24–32 in | Plant stands or a low floor spot |
| Floor plant · 10" pot | 28–48 in (up to 4 ft) | Living room corners, entryways, offices |
Heights are approximate and measured from the bottom of the nursery pot to the top of the leaves. Each tree is grown individually, so shape and fullness vary a little. Money trees grow slowly, so buy close to the size you want.
Quick facts
| Botanical name | Pachira aquatica |
| Also called | Money tree, braided money tree, Guiana chestnut, good luck tree |
| Pets | Non-toxic to cats and dogs (listed by the ASPCA) |
| Light | Bright, indirect light; tolerates medium light |
| Water | When the top 2 to 3 inches of soil are dry, about every 1 to 2 weeks |
| Growth | Slow; can reach 6 ft or more over many years |
| Care level | Easy |
Why you'll love it
- A pet-safe indoor tree: a great swap for toxic favorites like fiddle leaf fig and rubber plant.
- Sculptural: the braided trunk looks like a living piece of decor.
- A classic gift: money trees are a traditional symbol of good luck in feng shui, popular for housewarmings and new offices.
Care guide
Light: Bright, indirect light near an east or south window is ideal. It handles medium light but grows more slowly. Rotate it every week or two so it grows evenly.
Water: Water thoroughly when the top 2 to 3 inches of soil are dry, then let it drain completely. Never let it sit in water. Soggy soil is the main cause of problems.
Humidity and temperature: Normal household humidity is fine. Keep it between 65 and 80°F and away from cold drafts, heaters and AC vents.
Soil and feeding: Use a fast-draining potting mix and a pot with a drainage hole. Feed monthly at half strength in spring and summer. Repot every 2 to 3 years.
Questions
Is a money tree safe for cats and dogs?
Yes. The ASPCA lists money tree (Pachira aquatica) as non-toxic to cats and dogs. A pet that chews a lot of any plant may get a mild upset stomach, but it won't be poisoned.
Why is my money tree dropping leaves?
Money trees often drop a few leaves after a move while they adjust to new light. Keep it in one bright spot, water only when the top few inches are dry, and new leaves will follow. Ongoing leaf drop usually means overwatering, cold drafts or too little light.
How big will my money tree get?
It grows slowly indoors. Most stay close to their current size for the first year, and a tree can reach 6 feet or more over many years in good light. See the size guide above to pick the right starting size.
How is the trunk braided?
Growers weave several young, flexible stems together, and they grow into a single braided trunk over time. It's the same living tree, just shaped while young.
Where should I put a money tree for feng shui?
In feng shui tradition, money trees are often placed in the southeast area of a home or office (the "wealth corner") or near an entrance. For the plant's health, just make sure that spot gets bright, indirect light.
Looking for more pet-safe statement plants? See our pet-safe palms or easy plants for beginners.
Beautiful! Thank you so much! I bought the small size and it is perfect!
Our money tree showed up in great condition with a very healthy, beautifully woven trunk lush green leaves. This tree was an anniversary gift. My wife and I used to live in Taiwan, where the money tree is very popular. It was important to us that we have a living representation of a very special place in our hearts and a symbol of longevity and luck for our marriage. 5 Stars!!
My money tree arrived quickly and in perfect condition. I wanted to add a little feng shui and money manifestation to my home, and this was perfect. The braided trunk looks really cool! It's been pretty easy to care for so far, just watering when the soil gets dry. I'm very happy with this purchase.
Honestly the best customer service I have ever encountered. I've bought 4 plants from here; this is my 5th plant from Root & Reach Botanicals. My money tree way packaged very well and is so full and beautiful. Thank you again.
Money tree arrived well packaged and healthy. Now I just need to learn how to care for it. Lol
After reading reviews I went with the 10 inch money tree and it's spectacular!! Everyone keeps asking me where I got it. It arrived quick and in flawless condition.
I got the 10 inch money tree and the 6 inch parlor palm and both were packaged with so much care and arrived in excellent condition. I will be buying more pet safe plants from Root & Reach Botanicals. Wonderful shopping experience. Thank you!
I am very happy with my plant purchase from Root & Reach Botanicals. My money tree arrived quickly and is very healthy and full.
Wow. The pictures do not do this plant any justice! My 10 inch money tree is so lush and full. Very fast shipping. Wonderful online plant shop.
My money tree came quicker than I expected. It was in very good shape and I would definitely order from Root & Reach again!
Exceeded my expectations. My money tree is very full and healthy. Honestly these pictures don't do it justice. Very fast shipping. I love that I don't have to worry about my cat Nero nibbling on the leaves.
I love it! My money tree shipped very quickly and arrived healthy and full.
Exoctic plant
What a fantastic plant. It arrived quickly was well packaged and traveled safely during the winter.
I got the 8 inch money tree and it exceeded my expectations. It was packaged extremely well and is full and thriving. I love that it's pet safe and very low maintenance.
I ordered the 10-inch Money Tree for my office and absolutely love it!! The plant itself is so gorgeous and adds such a great vibe to my workspace. But honestly, the best part is knowing it's pet-safe. I never have to stress about my dog being curious around it. Plus, it's beautiful and hard to kill. That's a win-win.
I got two money trees and they are so adorable! They were both full and green when they got here. Wonderful shopping experience.
I can't get over how cute this is! My money tree arrived healthy without any damage. I was very impressed with the way this was packaged. They included heat packs, and it was secured in a way that the leaves couldn't get crushed. I will absolutely shop here again.
