At a glance
- Light
- Medium / indirect light
- Typical interval
- Every 6 to 8 days (summer)
Every 11 to 17 days (winter) - Climate
- 18–24 °C
- Humidity
- 50–70 %
- Pet safety
- Pet-safe (non-toxic)
- Scientific name
- Pachira aquatica
When and how much water
Water money tree when the top 3 cm 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. 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.
Light and placement
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
Feed 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
Money tree is comfortable between 18 and 24 °C. Below 10 °C the leaves start taking damage, so keep it clear of cold drafts and unheated rooms.
It does best at 50–70% humidity. It doesn’t need misting.
Common problems
Yellowing, drooping, and dry edges often point to watering or drainage. Compare the signs before changing the routine.
Find what’s wrong
Toxic to pets?
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 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 are my Money tree’s leaves turning yellow or drooping?
On a money tree, yellowing and soft growth usually mean overwatering: watch for yellowing leaves, soft squishy trunk, or root rot. Let the soil dry further between waterings and check drainage. If you see crispy leaflet tips, drooping leaves, or wrinkled trunk instead, it’s likely thirsty. Water a little more often. With Botanicaly Pro, Botanicaly Bot can help assess visible signs from a photo and suggest possible causes.
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
Last reviewed: 2026-09-21
