Pachira aquatica is a tropical tree native to the wetlands of Central and South America. It is one of the plants most commonly sold as a money tree, often recognized by its braided trunk and glossy, hand-shaped leaves.
Quick facts
- Family: Malvaceae (mallow family)
- Common names: Money tree, Malabar chestnut, Guiana chestnut, Saba nut
- Native range: Central and South America
- Growth habit: Tropical wetland tree; can reach large sizes outdoors but is usually kept much smaller indoors.
Indoor care
- Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal.
- Water: Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings; overwatering can lead to root rot.
- Temperature: Prefers warm conditions and dislikes frost.
- Humidity: Appreciates moderate to high humidity.
Symbolism
In feng shui and popular culture, the money tree is associated with luck, prosperity, and positive energy, which is why it is often given as a housewarming or business-opening gift.
Interesting note
Many braided “money trees” sold as houseplants are actually the closely related Pachira glabra, which has often been confused with Pachira aquatica in cultivation.