Also known as American Chestnut · Barekat · French Peanut
Pachira aquatica, commonly known as Money Tree, is a tropical plant recognized for its distinctive braided trunk and palmate leaves. It produces edible, chestnut-like nut
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light
80% intensity
High
Keep soil consistently moist, allow top 2-3 cm to dry
70% intensity
Regular
Well-draining, peat-based potting mix.
50% intensity
Warm, 18-24 °C
70% intensity
Warm
House Plant, Indoor, Outdoor
50% intensity
Monthly during growing season
60% intensity
Moderate
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
The seeds of Pachira aquatica are edible and can be roasted or eaten raw. The plant is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch, ensuring excess water drains away. Avoid letting the pot sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering frequency during the cooler, darker winter months when the plant's growth naturally slows down.
Prune your Money Tree to maintain its desired size and shape, and to encourage bushier growth. Remove any yellowing, damaged, or dead leaves and branches as needed.
You can also trim back leggy stems to promote a more compact form. Use clean, sharp shears to make precise cuts.
Pachira aquatica can be propagated from stem cuttings or seeds. For cuttings, take a 10-15 cm section with several leaves, remove lower leaves, and place in water or moist potting mix.
Seeds can be sown directly into well-draining soil. Provide warmth and high humidity for successful rooting or germination.
Repot your Money Tree every 1-2 years, or when it becomes root-bound, typically in spring. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to prevent overwatering.
Gently remove the plant, loosen any circling roots, and replant in fresh, well-draining potting mix. Water thoroughly after repotting.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Provision Tree (Pachira aquatica)
Where Provision Tree (Pachira aquatica) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Pachira |
| Species | Pachira aquatica |
Similar in genus Pachira
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
