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Native to central and south America, Pachira Stump Money Tree, or Pachira aquatica, is a part of the Malvaceae family. In its natural habitat, this tropical evergreen tree can grow up to 65 feet. Money Tree's long thin five-lobed leaves form an umbrella shape above its trunk.
The most interesting thing about Money Tree plant is that, unlike most tropical houseplants, it doesn't require a lot of water. It stores water in its chunky trunk.
In Chinese Feng Shui, Money Tree is a symbol of luck and prosperity, as good fortune is believed to be trapped within this plant's trunk, and the number five in its five-lobed leaves is also a lucky number. It is also useful in purifying your indoor air!
Money Stump Tree isn't likely to bloom indoors, but a matured Pachira aquatica growing in an ideal outdoor condition can produce yellow flowers and edible nuts.
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Money Tree likes bright, indirect sunlight, as harsh direct sunlight may scorch its leaves. It needs 4-6 hours of light daily, and too little light would stunt its growth. This plant tolerates fluorescent light, so it makes for a perfect office plant.
This plant needs less water than an average houseplant, as it can store water in its trunk.Water only when the top 2'' of the soil is dry and drain well after each watering to avoid root rot. Water thoroughly and let the soil dry out between waterings.
This plant prefers well-draining soils. Use a peat moss-based potting mix and add some perlite for a good drainage.
Money Tree thrives in temperatures between 65°F-80°F. Like most houseplants, it needs a humidity level of at least 50% all year round. Use a humidifier and mist your plant when the weather is dry, especially during winter.
This plant should be fertilized once per month during the growing season (spring/summer) with diluted houseplant fertilizer.
This plant is mildly toxic so keep it out of reach of curious children and pets.
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USDA Zone 10-12
USDA Zone 9b: to -3.8 °C (25 °F)
USDA Zone 10a: to -1.1 °C (30 °F)
USDA Zone 10b: to 1.7 °C (35 °F)
USDA Zone 11: above 4.5 °C (40 °F)