Money tree care guide
Pachira aquatica
Quick answer
Water your money tree when the top 3 cm (1.2 in) of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer that’s typically every 6 to 8 days.
- WateringEvery 6 to 8 days · summer
Every 11 to 17 days · winter - LightBright, indirect light
- Climate18–24 °C (64–75 °F)
- Pet safetyPet-safe (non-toxic)
How to water money tree
3 cm (1.2 in)
- Summer · Jun–AugEvery 6 to 8 days
- Winter · Dec–FebEvery 11 to 17 days
Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Adjust the timing for the light at the plant, the pot’s size and material, and the humidity indoors. Terracotta dries faster than glazed ceramic.
Work out your own rhythm with the watering calculator.
Light and placement for money tree
Bright, indirect light
Money tree thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it 1–2 meters back from an east or west window, or behind a sheer curtain on a south window.
Feeding money tree
Feed your money tree every 30 days while it’s actively growing. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half the strength on the label, and only on soil that’s already damp. Feeding dry roots can scorch them.
When growth pauses, skip the fertilizer and let it rest.
Temperature & humidity
Climate18–24 °C (64–75 °F)
Humidity50–70%
During leafy growth, aim for 18–24 °C (64–75 °F). For routine indoor care, keep it above about 10 °C (50 °F) and avoid cold drafts. This is a care guideline, not an exact damage threshold. Cooler overwintering depends on the species and its rest conditions.
It does best at 50–70% humidity. It doesn’t need misting.
Money tree in winter
Watering: every 11 to 17 days. Temperature year-round: 18–24 °C (64–75 °F).
When growth pauses, skip the fertilizer and let it rest.
Common money tree problems
Yellowing, drooping, and dry edges often point to watering or drainage. Compare the signs before changing the routine.
Find what’s wrong
Is money tree toxic to cats and dogs?
No. Pet-safe.
Money tree is non-toxic to cats and dogs. Safe to keep in a home with pets.
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
Common questions
How often should I water a money tree?
Water your money tree (Pachira aquatica) when the top 3 cm (1.2 in) of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer, that’s typically every 6 to 8 days. In winter, slow down to every 11 to 17 days.
How much light does a money tree need?
Money tree thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it 1–2 meters back from an east or west window, or behind a sheer curtain on a south window.
Is money tree safe for cats and dogs?
Money tree is non-toxic to cats and dogs. Safe to keep in a home with pets.
Why is my money tree turning yellow or drooping?
Yellowing, drooping and brown tips can have several causes. Check the potting mix before adding water and follow this plant’s watering and rest instructions. If the mix is still wet, do not add more water. Check drainage and roots, then light, humidity, water quality and pests. Faded color or webbing alone does not show that the roots need water.
Sources3 references
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Plants of the World OnlineTaxonomy · accepted name · classification
- North Carolina State University Extension Gardener Plant ToolboxHouseplant context · light · temperature · humidity · water · soil · pests and diseases
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlScientific name · toxicity · toxic principle · clinical signs
- How we check our plant advice
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