Why Money Tree Plants Are Great in Your Apartment

If you’re looking for a simple, easy way to decorate your apartment, look no further than money tree plants.

The money tree plant, or Pachira aquatica, is characterized by its braided trunk. As the story goes, it got its nickname when a poor man prayed for money and found one in the wetlands. Rumor has it that the man took the plant home and began to make money by selling the seeds of the plant. That’s why many cultures still regard it as a plant that brings good luck and harmony both in your life and in your home.

But that’s not the only reason why money tree plants are great in your apartment. Let’s look at some of the other things that makes them so special.

6 Reasons A Money Tree Plant Makes A Great Roommate

1. Money Tree Plants Come in Different Sizes

No matter what size apartment you’re living in, you should find a money tree plant that will fit your space perfectly.

You’ll find some that are small enough to fit on a desk or counter and others you can set on the floor. Keep in mind that when grown outdoors, money tree plants can grow 60 feet tall, but indoors they typically don’t make it past 7 feet.

2. Money Trees May Bring You Some Luck

The size of your plant won’t matter, but you may want to think about where you place it.

Because money tree plants are also called the “Good Luck Tree” it is the most popular plant for Feng Shui. Feng Shui enthusiasts recommend placing yours in the southeast corner of your house or apartment. That corner is said to be ruled by greenery and wood. Others feel that any area of your home where you want more prosperity and wealth is an ideal place.

Most money trees have five or six leaves on each stem, but you’ll occasionally find one with seven leaves on each stem. Seven-leaf stems are rumored to be even luckier.

3. Money Trees Have Air-Purifying Qualities

NASA studied the effects plants can have on the air in our homes and apartments. They found the money tree plant is one of the best ones for clearing the air.

The Clean Air Study found money trees provide a natural way of removing toxic agents such as benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene. Later research suggests soil microorganisms in potted plants may also play a role in cleaning indoor air.

4. Money Tree Plants Don’t Need Much Light

Even if your apartment doesn’t get a lot of natural light, it’s still a good environment for a money tree plant. In fact, your plant may be more likely to thrive there, since money tree plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can burn their leaves, so find a spot away from the window.

5. Money Tree Plants Don’t Need Much Water

You can easily overwater your money tree plant, so remember— less is more. Overwatering can cause root rot, which is a common problem.

For a 5-inch money tree, water with 2 ice cubes or 3 tablespoons of water once a week. That amount should be enough. It should not dry out between watering.

In general, money tree plants only need about 6-8 ounces of water every three weeks.

6. Money Trees Are Low-Maintenance

Your plant also won’t mind a little humidity, so if it gets a little muggy it’s OK. The plant’s native habitat is in Central and South America. Money tree plants can handle it. Here are some potential issues to watch for:

1. Hot, dry air can cause problems like leaf loss, so you may want to consider putting a humidifier in the room.
2. Drafts may cause leaf loss, so keep your money tree plant away from the heating and air conditioning vents.
3. If you want your money tree plant to grow evenly, it's a good idea to turn it 90 degrees once a week.

That’s about it. Money tree plants are very easy to care for and a great addition to any apartment. They make a great apartment-warming gift.

Buy a money tree plant for someone you love today!