The Secret Life of the Money Tree

You’ve probably come across the money tree before. Its distinctive scheffleralike leaves and braided stems make it hard to miss. But did you know that this popular houseplant has a fascinating history? Let’s dive into the world of the money tree and uncover its hidden secrets.

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The Superstitions of Wealth

In Chinese tradition, the number five is considered auspicious and associated with wealth. Hence, the money tree, with its five leaflets, is believed to bring financial prosperity. Feng shui enthusiasts swear that having a five-leaved plant at home guarantees a prosperous future. Interestingly, even if the plant occasionally produces six or seven leaflets, or even nine, it is still seen as lucky.

To enhance its luckiness, the money tree is often sold with five interlaced stems. However, it’s crucial to note that it should never have four stems, as four is considered a symbol of death. Superstitious owners would promptly make such a plant vanish from their homes. This tradition has led to the export of millions of braided money trees from Taiwan since the 1980s, where the production of these unique plants has grown into a thriving industry.

Unveiling the Money Tree’s Identity

Did you know that there are two different species of money trees? Both belong to the Malvaceae family and are native to Central and South America. Pachira aquatica, although less commonly grown, is generally credited as the original money tree. However, Pachira glabra is the more popular choice among enthusiasts.

Read more : Repotting a Money Tree: The Ultimate Guide

When young, it’s challenging to tell these two species apart. Yet, P. glabra has a more prominent bulbous base, setting it apart from its counterpart. The flowers of P. aquatica display white stamens with red tips, while P. glabra boasts pure white flowers. Additionally, the fruits of P. aquatica are a velvety mahogany brown, while those of P. glabra are green and smooth. Notably, both species yield edible nuts, earning them the alternative name of Malabar chestnut.

Although money trees rarely bloom indoors, their large and attractive flowers open at night and fall off the following morning when cultivated in tropical climates. Their unique blooms add another layer of intrigue to these captivating plants.

The Aging Challenge

In their natural habitat, both P. aquatica and P. glabra are tall forest trees. Consequently, their growth habit can be observed in their potted counterparts. Young money trees are reluctant to branch, and even if you trim the top off, they typically only produce one replacement stem, occasionally two. This uniqueness results in potted money trees taking on an ungainly appearance as they age.

To maintain a more appealing shape, it is recommended to prune these trees annually in late winter. This might leave behind noticeable pruning scars, as money trees are not known for gracefully aging. However, new foliage will often conceal these scars, allowing the tree to retain its beauty from a distance.

Taking Care of Your Money Tree

Read more : How to Cultivate a Flourishing Money Tree Plant

Surprisingly, money trees are remarkably resilient houseplants. They possess the remarkable ability to thrive in a wide range of conditions. Although they naturally grow in full tropical sun as adult trees, they also tolerate deep shade during their germination phase, retaining this tolerance when grown indoors. These adaptable plants can withstand both overwatering and drought, and seem unfazed by cramped pots.

To ensure the best care for your money tree, you can place it in full sun or keep it away from windows, water it regularly or allow the soil to dry out completely. They can withstand normal indoor temperatures and are even capable of thriving in dry air. However, they will appear lusher when exposed to humid conditions. Surprisingly, money trees show minimal response to fertilizer, so applying a bit in the spring and summer can still be beneficial.

For optimal growth, consider placing your money tree outdoors in full sun during the summer. But be sure to acclimate it gradually to avoid leaf burn. When night temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C), it’s time to bring your plant back indoors.

Yellow, gold, or red twist ties are often used when braiding money tree stems, as they are believed to bring extra luck. If you wish to maintain the braided appearance, it’s advisable to braid the stems when they are young and pliable, using twist ties to hold them together until they solidify.

The Unexpected Beauty of Persistence

Lastly, let’s not forget the inherent beauty found in resilience. I have personally nurtured a Pachira glabra indoors for nearly two decades. Despite the pruning scars and its less-than-perfect appearance, this tree has managed to surprise me with new growth. Its ability to persevere through adversity is something I greatly admire and reward.

So, the next time you encounter a money tree, take a moment to appreciate its unique journey. From its auspicious origins to its undying spirit, this captivating plant continues to captivate and inspire.

Source: https://designsofapril.com
Category: Money tree