Money Tree Care: Light, Water and Leaf Drop
Keep Pachira aquatica healthy in a draining pot.
Quick questions
Why is my money tree dropping leaves?
Review recent changes in light, temperature and moisture, then inspect the plant for pests.
How often should I water a money tree?
Check the upper mix and pot weight, then water thoroughly and drain when it has begun to dry.
Should I braid the stems tighter?
No. Tight ties can constrict growing stems; inspect and loosen or remove them.
Will it flower indoors?
Pachira aquatica can flower, but indoor potted plants rarely do.
Pachira aquatica is commonly sold as a money tree, sometimes with several young trunks braided together. Indoors it is a foliage tree; flowers are unlikely in a pot.
Light and position
Choose bright indirect light or gentle sun after gradual adjustment. A very dark corner weakens growth, while an abrupt move into hot sun can mark leaves. Keep it away from cold draughts.
Water by checking the pot
Water when the upper mix has dried and the pot is lighter, then let water run through and empty the saucer. Inspect deeper in a large decorative container, where the surface can feel dry while the root zone is still wet.
Soil, pot and growth
Use a container with holes and a mix that drains while holding some moisture. Do not add a much larger pot just because the canopy has grown. Check that tight ties around a braided trunk are not cutting into growing stems.
If something looks wrong
Leaf drop can follow a move, a cold draught, moisture trouble or pests. Check the actual pot and recent changes before deciding on a fix. New growth is a better sign of recovery than fallen leaves returning.
Safety and the next check
Confirm the exact plant name before using a pet-safety listing. Keep any plant away from a pet that repeatedly chews it and call a veterinarian if it seems unwell.
Keep a short record of when you checked the mix, watered and moved the plant. Compare new growth with your notes before making another change.
Related LeafLovers guides
Sources for this guide
2 sources
Spotted something that needs correcting? Send a message.
