How to Grow Pachira Money Tree - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2025

Pachira money tree is a tropical plant that is native to Central and South America. The plant has large, glossy leaves and produces small, white flowers. The fruit of the plant is a small, red berry. The plant is grown as a houseplant in many parts of the world and is also used in traditional medicine.

How to Grow Pachira Money Tree - Plant Care & Tips

Also called

  • guiana chestnut
  • money tree
  • french peanut
  • provision tree
  • swamp chestnut

Basic info

  • Native to Central and South America, the pachira money tree is also known as the Malabar chestnut or French peanut.
  • The tree grows up to 60 feet (18 meters) tall in the wild, but is often much smaller when cultivated.
  • The pachira money tree has glossy, dark green leaves that are palmate (hand-like) in shape and can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) long.
  • The tree produces clusters of small, fragrant flowers that give way to edible, brownish-red fruits about the size of a small chestnut.
  • Pachira money trees are often grown as houseplants, and are said to bring good luck and prosperity to those who care for them.
  • These plants are not difficult to care for, but they do require some basic knowledge to thrive.
  • Some of the most important things to know about caring for a pachira money tree include proper watering, adequate lighting, and regular fertilization.
  • When watering a pachira money tree, it is important to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Over-watering can lead to problems such as root rot.
  • Pachira money trees need bright, indirect light to thrive, but can tolerate low light conditions if necessary.
  • These plants should be fertilized every two to four weeks during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer formulated for houseplants.

How to Grow

  1. For pachira money tree, first step is to fill a wide and shallow bowl with fresh, clean water.
  2. Place the tree in the bowl, making sure that the roots are submerged.
  3. Allow the tree to soak for about an hour, or until the roots are pliable.
  4. Fill a pot with fresh, clean potting mix, and water it well.
  5. Carefully remove the tree from the bowl, and shake off any excess water.
  6. Create a small hole in the center of the potting mix, and gently insert the tree.
  7. Fill in any gaps around the roots, and lightly press the potting mix down.
  8. Water the tree well, and place it in a bright, indirect light.
  9. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
  10. Fertilize the tree monthly during the spring and summer months with a balanced fertilizer.

Related plant:
Pachira Plant

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, pachira money tree need a well aerated loam soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moist but not water logged. Pachira money tree will not tolerate drought or extended periods of dryness.

About light

So, like the other houseplants, the pachira money tree appreciates a little light. It will do best near a bright window where it can receive indirect sunlight. If you don’t have a bright spot in your home, you can supplement with a grow light. The money tree will also do well in an office environment near a window.

The Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for a pachira money tree is a temperature between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate some temperature fluctuations, but prefer to be in a warm environment. If the temperature drops below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, the tree may go into shock and die.

Ideal Humidity

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 40 to 50%. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will turn brown and drop off. If the humidity is too high, the plant will become susceptible to fungal diseases.

The Fertilizer

The fertilizer, this kind of plant food, is rich in nitrogen and other essential nutrients, which can help the pachira money tree to grow strong and healthy roots. It is important to note that too much fertilizer can actually damage the roots, so be sure to use it sparingly. The roots of the pachira money tree are fragile and need to be protected. If you live in an area with cold winters, it is best to move the tree indoors to protect the roots from the cold.

About light

Pruning your pachira money tree is important to maintain its shape and encourage new growth. When pruning, be sure to cut back to a main branch or trunk to avoid damaging the plant. You can prune your tree in the spring or fall.

Plant Propagation

Propagation is generally done by seed, although cuttings from the tips of young branches can also be used. Sow seed in moist, well-drained seed-starting mix at 70-85 degrees F in spring. Place 3-4 seeds in each pot and keep the soil moist but not wet. Seedlings usually emerge in 21-35 days. When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into individual pots.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate is between 6 and 12 inches per year. However, they can grow up to 24 inches in a single year if they are given the right conditions. Pachira money trees need full sun to partial shade, and well drained soil. They are not very drought tolerant, so they need to be watered regularly. Fertilize your tree every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are root rot, yellowing leaves, and browning leaves. Root rot is caused by overwatering, and yellowing leaves can be caused by too much sun or too little water. Browning leaves can be caused by too much fertilizer, or by pests such as spider mites or aphids.

Tips on Growing

  • Do not forget to water your pachira money tree plant.
  • Place your pachira money tree plant in a bright location.
  • fertilize your pachira money tree plant every month during the growing season.
  • Prune your pachira money tree plant to encourage new growth.
  • repot your pachira money tree plant every two years to help it stay healthy.
  • Be sure to check the roots of your pachira money tree plant regularly to make sure they are not overgrown.
  • If you live in a cold climate, you may need to bring your pachira money tree plant indoors during the winter months.
  • Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and take action immediately if you notice anything abnormal.
  • Take care not to overwater your pachira money tree plant.
  • Enjoy watching your pachira money tree plant grow!

Substitution

  • Pachira glabra
  • Pachira insignis
  • Pachira aquatica
  • Pachira acuminata
  • Pachira quinata
  • Pachira rhizophoreae
  • Pachira rhizophora
  • Pachira thibetana
  • Pachira uruguayensis
  • Pachira tristis

Source:
Money Plant | Home & Garden Information Center - Clemson …
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