Upcoming Events: Tissue Culture Workshop August 29 @ 11 am / Macramé Air Plant Holder Class Sunday Sept. 13th @ 3 pm / Moss Art Thursday Sept. 24th @ 6pm / Moss Art Thursday Oct. 1st @ 6 pm
Variegated Money Tree is a striking tropical houseplant known for its palm-like leaves patterned with green, creamy white, pale yellow, and lime-green variegation. Each leaf can develop a different pattern, ranging from subtle marbling to dramatic sections of light-colored foliage. Its upright, tree-like growth and bright variegation make it an excellent statement plant for living rooms, offices, entryways, and other bright indoor spaces.
The proper botanical name is Pachira aquatica, with variegated plants commonly sold as Pachira aquatica ‘Variegata’ or Variegated Money Tree. Standard Money Trees are also known as Malabar Chestnut or Guiana Chestnut. Many commercially grown plants are sold with several young trunks braided together, although the braided trunk is created by growers rather than being the plant's natural growth form.
Variegated Money Tree does best in bright, indirect light. Because the lighter portions of its leaves contain less chlorophyll, variegated plants benefit from brighter filtered light than an all-green Money Tree. Avoid prolonged harsh direct sunlight, which can scorch the cream and white portions of the foliage.
Water thoroughly when the top inch or two of soil feels dry and allow excess water to drain completely. Money Trees appreciate consistent watering during active growth but should not remain in soggy soil. They can be particularly susceptible to root problems when overwatered.
Use a well-draining, airy potting mix and a pot with drainage. A mixture containing quality houseplant soil, perlite or pumice, orchid bark, and coco coir works well and provides a good balance of moisture retention and airflow around the roots.
Variegated Money Tree prefers warm temperatures and moderate to high humidity. It adapts well to normal household conditions but appreciates additional humidity in particularly dry environments. Keep it away from cold drafts, heating vents, and sudden temperature changes.
This plant has an upright, tree-like growth habit and can become a substantial indoor plant over time. Pruning the growing tips can help control its height and encourage a fuller, more branched canopy. Variegation can naturally vary between leaves and branches. If a variegated plant begins producing completely green growth, that growth can be pruned back to help prevent it from eventually dominating the more decorative variegated portions.
Variegated Money Tree is generally considered pet-friendly and non-toxic to cats and dogs. As with any houseplant, eating a large amount of foliage may still cause mild digestive upset, so it is best to discourage pets from chewing on the plant.
Upcoming Events: Tissue Culture Workshop August 29 @ 11 am / Macramé Air Plant Holder Class Sunday Sept. 13th @ 3 pm / Moss Art Thursday Sept. 24th @ 6pm / Moss Art Thursday Oct. 1st @ 6 pm
