This tropical tree (not to be confused with the Chinese money plant, or Pilea Peperomioides) is similar to a marijuana plant in shape, but it features a braided stem trunk (that can grow up to 60 feet tall in its natural environment!). Below, three money tree experts share their knowledge on how to care for this unique, symbolic beauty. Summers tells mbg that since the story has been told, “the money tree is often gifted to people when they open a new business or move into a new home… It is seen as a symbol of hope, prosperity, and good fortune.” “You will often see money trees placed at the threshold of someone’s home or in a shop window front,” Summers tells mbg. “These are great places for the plant if the growing conditions are right.” That last part is key: Don’t place your tree in a wealth corner that’s dark and drafty and expect it to thrive. It needs to live in an area that gets adequate lighting. Bessma Khalaf, the owner of Kokedama-based plant shop Of Soil & Moss, adds that a south-facing window is great for giving money trees the right mix of shade and sun. However, she says not to place your tree directly up against the window. You should also make sure it isn’t too close to any vents, as intense heat can dry the plant out. With proper light, money trees can grow up to 8 feet tall in indoor environments. This is a tropical plant that enjoys humidity and is used to passing rain showers in its native environment. This means that it can handle a really thorough watering—so consider lugging it to the sink or even the shower for a good drink if you can. Be sure to water down those leaves too! Sabharwal recommends placing your money tree in a pot with drainage holes, which will give any excess water a way to escape. Signs that your money tree isn’t getting enough water include brown and crispy leaves. Summers tells mbg that “a good mix of traditional potting soil and coco coir or peat moss is great.” Summers also recommends fertilizing the money tree (along with your other foliage plants), once a month between spring and fall. “I just recommend keeping your fertilizers organic, and steer clear of synthetic ingredients,” she adds. When Carly’s not covering sustainability topics, she spends her time tackling social impact issues regarding the environment & its inhabitants, practicing self-reflection (on and off the mat), and reading memoirs from Black authors. She lives in Brooklyn, New York.
