The money tree, also called the Pachira aquatica, is a wetland species from Central America with a beautiful braided trunk, and glossy green leaves. As an indoor plant, it’s easy to care for and, according to legend, is thought to bring prosperity to its caregiver. Read on to learn more about the legends and discover a few care tips!
The Legend of the Money Tree
One day, a poor farmer who was down on his luck prayed for prosperity. Soon after, he discovered a tree in the forest with a braided trunk. Perceiving it as a good omen, he started propagating it, and selling the trees to others. They became so popular that he soon made a fortune from the sales. Hence, he dubbed it, the “money tree.”
Common Themes from Other Money Trees Legends
The above story is associated with this tree, but other trees that bring good fortune and prosperity appear in lots of legends, including ancient English and European folktales. A common theme is that by protecting and cultivating certain sacred trees, they bestow protection and good fortune over you.
How to Grow a Money Tree
If you want to see if these lucky legends hold some truth, a money tree is the perfect indoor plant to start with. Here is the recipe for proper care:
- Water Care: Water your money tree thoroughly once the top 2-4 inches of soil are dry. Dump excess water from the saucer or water the plant over the sink to let extra water drain from the pot. Even though it grows near wetlands, it needs proper drainage and doesn’t like to sit in water.
- Lighting Needs: Take care to give your money tree lots of bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves. Moving it to a new location too often can result in leaf drop.
- Humidity and Temperature: Ideal indoor conditions for a money tree are 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit, and at least 50% humidity.
- Fertilizer Care: Feed your money tree 2-3 times during the growing season. Use a liquid fertilizer diluted by half.
- Pruning: Prune your tree to keep it in the size you desire and to remove any dead leaves that appear. Spring is the best time for any significant pruning. If you’re into artistic pruning, note that it is possible to keep this tree as a bonsai.
- Soil Care: When repotting your money tree, place it in a well-draining potting mix. It only needs repotting on average about every three years, or when the pot has become too small.
The Benefits of Growing Money Trees
If you care diligently for your money tree, will the tree spirit help bring you good fortune? We’ll leave it up to you to find out. But certainly, you can expect to receive more fresh air in the room, a bit of stress relief from having a tree in your midst, and the unique beauty of this tree with its braided trunk.
Common Questions about Money Trees
Where Do You Put Your Money Tree for Good Luck? Like any other indoor plant, it’s important to put this tree in a location where it will thrive. For the money tree, an ideal spot is somewhere with bright, indirect light, humidity at 50% or more, and normal indoor room temperatures.
Is It Bad Luck to Buy Your Own Money Tree? No, none of the legends talk about that. The key to receiving the benefits of any houseplant, whether it’s bringing you good luck or not, is to properly care for it. Plus, in Illinois, it would be hard to find your own money tree in the forest, since these trees originate in the tropics of Central America.
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