The Money Tree plant, with its lush foliage and symbolic name suggesting wealth and prosperity, is believed to bring good fortune and abundance to its owner. However, not everyone is suited to cultivating this plant. In Feng Shui, certain individuals, based on their elemental nature, may experience financial setbacks and bad luck if they insist on growing Money Trees. So, who should avoid this plant and why?
The Significance of the Money Tree
In Vietnamese culture, the Money Tree plant is cherished for its name, which alludes to “wealth and prosperity.” This plant belongs to the Wood element, and its deep green, symmetrically arranged leaves symbolize balance and harmony. According to Feng Shui principles, Money Trees attract positive energy, bringing good fortune in business ventures and thriving careers. However, not everyone can harness the beneficial energy of these plants. For individuals with certain elemental affinities, growing Money Trees may lead to conflicts and negative financial influences.

Who Should Not Grow Money Trees?
Feng Shui is rooted in the five elements: Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth, each with unique characteristics and relationships of mutual enhancement and conflict. As Money Trees belong to the Wood element, individuals with elements that conflict with Wood or do not resonate harmoniously with its energy may encounter disadvantages when growing these plants. The following elemental groups should proceed with caution:
1. Metal Element Individuals
In the five-element system, Wood overwhelms Metal. Money Trees, being Wood element plants, can create conflict for those with Metal elemental affinities. The energy of the plant may suppress and weaken the life force of Metal element individuals, making it challenging for them to accumulate wealth. People with Metal elemental affinities often possess strong, decisive personalities, but growing Money Trees may introduce unwanted difficulties in their careers or finances. Instead of Money Trees, Metal element individuals should opt for plants from the Earth element (which generates Metal), such as Snake Plants or Peace Lilies, to boost their luck.
2. Fire Element Individuals
Although Wood generates Fire, this mutually enhancing relationship does not always bring benefits. For Fire element individuals, the Wood energy of Money Trees can be overwhelming, disrupting their life balance. Fire element personalities are usually dynamic and passionate, but an excess of Wood energy may lead to impatience and impulsive financial decisions. Therefore, Fire element individuals should carefully consider before placing a Money Tree in their home or workplace.
3. Earth Element Individuals
The relationship between Wood and Earth is one of conflict, as Wood draws nutrients from the Earth. Earth element individuals are typically stable and reliable, but growing Money Trees may weaken their innate stability. This can result in financial troubles, career setbacks, or a sense of unrest in their lives. Instead, Earth element individuals should favor plants from the Fire or Earth elements to boost positive energy.

Placement of Money Trees
Apart from elemental affinities, the placement of Money Trees also influences Feng Shui. Even for those with compatible elements, positioning the plant in an unsuitable location can negate its positive energy. For instance, avoid placing Money Trees in dark areas or bedrooms, as this can hinder the flow of wealth. Instead, opt for bright and airy spaces like living rooms or work areas to maximize the plant’s Feng Shui benefits.
For individuals with conflicting elements who still wish to grow Money Trees due to their aesthetic appeal, there are ways to mitigate the negative influences. For instance, placing the plant in an Earth element pot (such as a brown ceramic pot) or incorporating natural stones or other Feng Shui items can help balance the energy. However, the best approach is to select plants that align with one’s elemental nature to avoid any potential pitfalls.
To ensure that the plants bring good fortune, homeowners should understand their elemental nature and the relationships within the five elements. Here are some suggestions:
Water Element: Choose plants from the Metal or Water elements, such as Money Plants or Orchid Jasmine.
Wood Element: Money Trees are an excellent choice, or consider other plants like Jade Plants or Areca Palms.
Fire Element: Prioritize plants from the Wood or Fire elements, such as Poinsettias or Rubber Trees.
Earth Element: Opt for plants from the Fire or Earth elements, including Snake Plants or Succulents.
Metal Element: Select plants from the Earth or Metal elements, such as White Knight or Peace Lilies.
Choosing the right plants not only enhances luck but also creates a harmonious and pleasant living environment. If unsure about one’s elemental nature or plant selection, consulting a Feng Shui expert can provide valuable guidance.