3 Reasons Why The Golden Money Tree, Despite Being A “Luck and Fortune Magnet”, Is Still On Many People’s “Blacklist”

26 September, 2024

Golden Money Tree, or Pachira aquatica, is a symbol of good fortune, wealth, and prosperity in Feng Shui. Its leaves are arranged in a way that represents the balance of the five elements – metal, wood, water, fire, and earth, and it is believed to bring harmony to all aspects of one’s life.

This beautiful plant is known for its air-purifying abilities and its capacity to absorb radiation from electronic devices, creating a healthy and comfortable living environment. It’s no wonder that many people choose to keep it in their homes. However, the Golden Money Tree also has a few drawbacks that have landed it on the “blacklist” for some families.

Golden Money Tree’s Air-Purifying Abilities

Prone to Leaf Yellowing

Unlike other common Feng Shui plants such as Money Plant (Crassula ovata) and Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata), the Golden Money Tree is not low-maintenance. When cultivating this tree, one must pay close attention to its environment as its leaves are susceptible to turning yellow. Neglect can lead to an aesthetically displeasing plant with all its leaves discolored.

Moreover, once the leaves start to yellow, it is challenging to restore them to their original vibrant state, despite attempts to adjust watering, fertilization, or repotting.

Intolerant of Direct Sunlight or Intense Light

While the Golden Money Tree thrives in a bright environment, it cannot withstand intense light or direct sunlight. Therefore, it should not be placed in direct sunlight, and its position must be adjusted regularly to ensure it receives adequate light without scorching.

For those cultivating this tree indoors or in low-light conditions, it is essential to provide occasional sun exposure while ensuring the leaves are protected from sunburn.

Slow Growth Rate

The Golden Money Tree has an extremely slow growth rate, which may be off-putting to some. After an extended period, there may be little to no noticeable change in the tree’s appearance, which can be frustrating for those seeking a more dynamic houseplant.

Tips for Caring for Your Golden Money Tree

The Golden Money Tree thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 25 to 32 degrees Celsius. During winter, ensure the temperature remains above 10 degrees Celsius to prevent cold damage, which can cause leaf yellowing.
Due to its drought tolerance, the Golden Money Tree does not require frequent or excessive watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In spring and summer, when the tree is actively growing, increase watering to keep the soil moist, but avoid overwatering.
Once a month or every two months, apply a diluted solution of NPK fertilizer to the soil to promote healthy growth. However, refrain from fertilizing during extremely hot or cold periods to avoid stressing the plant.
Place your Golden Money Tree in a well-ventilated, shaded area, as it prefers indirect light and does not fare well in direct sunlight or intense light conditions.