How to Care for a Money Tree

Money tree houseplants are defined by their braided trunks and green stalks containing five long leaves each. While money trees are a tropical plant native to Central and South America, they’re widely popular in Japan and East Asia. In fact, much of the symbolism surrounding this plant—tying it to good luck and wealth—originates from when the money trees were first cultivated in Taiwan. Money trees are also commonly used by Feng Shui practitioners.

It’s worth noting, however, that a money tree is different from a money plant (often called the Chinese money plant) which has coin-shaped leaves and is also considered a symbol of wealth. Keep reading to learn how to make sure a money tree can grow and thrive in your home.

Money Tree Care Tips

Luckily, a money tree is considered low maintenance, making it a great plant for beginners. So, you don’t have to stress about bringing this plant into your home, but following the below care recommendations will help your money tree to be as strong and healthy as possible.

Light

Indoor money trees prefer bright, indirect sunlight, meaning they’re a good candidate for placing near a window. Money tree plants can even grow low light and under fluorescent lights, when the rest of their needs are being met.

The only light they don’t like is bright, direct sunlight, so don’t keep these plants up right against a sunny window.

Soil and Water

Money trees do best in a well-draining potting mix and should be planted in a pot with good drainage. While money trees are native to wetlands, they don’t like to sit in water when grown indoors and actually do better with less frequent waterings when compared to some other houseplants.

You should aim to water your money plant every one to two weeks, or when the soil is 50%-75% dry. During these waterings, be sure to water thoroughly, until the water runs out of the drainage holes of the pot.

Temperature and Humidity

Money trees prefer indoor temperatures between about 60 to 75 F. These plants can also do just fine in average home humidity, but they also like higher humidity, so a good misting from time to time—especially if your home runs on the drier side—can help your plant thrive.

Common Problems

Leaf drop, yellowing leaves, and root rot, are some of the most common problems for money trees. Overwatering is one of the main causes behind many of these issues, which is why it’s so important to stick to a more infrequent watering schedule for money tree and only water when the soil is at least 50% dry.

Leaf drop is also commonly a response to environmental stress. Money trees don’t like major changes in environment, so your plant may lose some leaves after a move or location change, but it will eventually acclimate as long as the rest of its needs are being met.