
Money Tree
Pachira aquatica
Basic Information
πΏ Family: MalvaceaeπΊοΈ Zone: 10-12
Other Names:
- Malabar Chestnut
- Guiana Chestnut
π‘οΈ Ideal Temperature : 65Β°F β 75Β°F
π₯ Heat Tolerance: Up to 90Β°F
βοΈ Cold Tolerance: Down to 50Β°F
π± Type: Perennial
Layers
- Sub-canopy
Functions
- Edible
- Medicinal
- Wildlife Attractor
- Indoor Plant
Pests
No pests associated with this plant.
Companions
- Fern
- Philodendron
- Pothos
- Spider Plant
- Peace Lily
Plants to Avoid
- None
Description
The Money Tree (*Pachira aquatica*) is a tropical wetland tree native to Central and South America. It can grow up to 18 meters (60 feet) in the wild but is commonly kept as a much smaller indoor plant. The tree features shiny, palmate leaves and smooth green bark. Its flowers are large, with long, narrow petals that curl back to reveal clusters of long, thread-like stamens. The plant produces large, woody seed pods containing edible nuts.
ππ§ **Sun and Water Requirements:**
Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions. Requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged; overwatering can lead to root rot.
βοΈπ« **Methods to Propagate:**
Propagation is typically done through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be planted fresh, while cuttings should be taken from semi-hardwood branches and rooted in moist soil.
π§βπΎπ©βπΎ **When to Harvest:**
In its native habitat, nuts are harvested when the seed pods mature and split open. As an indoor plant, it is primarily grown for ornamental purposes.
Purpose
- Edible: The seeds, flowers, and leaves are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked.
- Medicinal: Traditionally used to treat headaches and stomachaches.
- Wildlife Attractor: Flowers attract pollinators such as bats and insects.
- Indoor Plant: Popular as a decorative houseplant believed to bring good luck and prosperity.