Money Tree Vs Chinese Money Plant – Which Lucky Plant Is Best For You?

ByRimon Chowdhury Updated on

Hello, fellow plant lovers! Have you ever walked into a nursery, determined to bring home a plant fabled to attract good fortune, only to find yourself standing between two very different-looking green beauties both labeled “money plant”? You’re not alone! It’s one of the most common points of confusion for new and even experienced gardeners.

But don’t you worry. I’m here to clear the air and act as your friendly guide. We’re going to solve this classic green-thumb mystery together. Think of me as your gardening friend who has made all the mistakes so you don’t have to!

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the money tree vs chinese money plant debate. We’ll explore their unique looks, unpack their specific care needs, and even touch on the wonderful folklore that gives them their lucky reputation. By the end, you’ll know exactly which plant will thrive in your home and bring you joy (and maybe a little prosperity!).

Meet the Contenders: A Tale of Two “Money” Plants

First things first, let’s get properly introduced. While they share a nickname, these two plants aren’t even in the same botanical family. They come from different parts of the world and have completely different personalities.

The Majestic Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)

Often seen with a distinctive braided trunk, the Money Tree is technically a tropical wetland tree native to Central and South America. In its natural habitat, it can grow up to 60 feet tall! But don’t panic—as a houseplant, it remains a much more manageable, elegant tree-like specimen that adds a touch of lush, tropical flair to any room.

The Charming Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides)

This delightful plant, also known as the “Pancake Plant” or “UFO Plant,” hails from the Yunnan province of China. The Pilea peperomioides is beloved for its unique, coin-shaped leaves that seem to float on delicate stems. It has a more quirky, modern aesthetic and a fascinating habit of producing little “pups” or offshoots, which is why it’s also called the “Pass-It-On Plant.”

Appearance Showdown: Telling Them Apart at a Glance

Once you know what to look for, telling these two apart is a breeze. Let’s break down their key visual differences. This is the first step in our money tree vs chinese money plant guide.

Leaf Shape and Texture

This is the most obvious giveaway. The Money Tree has palmate leaves, meaning several glossy, lance-shaped leaflets (usually five to seven) spread out from a central point, resembling a hand. They have a rich, deep green color.

The Chinese Money Plant, on the other hand, features perfectly round, flat, leathery leaves that look like little green coins or pancakes. Each leaf is attached to the main stem by a petiole (leaf stalk) that connects right in the center of the leaf, giving it that signature UFO look.

Stems and Growth Habit

The Money Tree is famous for its trunk. Most sold commercially have several young, pliable stems braided together when the plant is young. This is purely for aesthetics but has become its signature look. It grows upright, like a miniature tree.

The Chinese Money Plant grows from a single, upright, greenish-brown main stem. As it matures, the stem becomes more woody. Its growth is more bushy and whimsical, with leaves pointing in all directions as it reaches for the light.

Overall Size and Stature

Indoors, a well-cared-for Money Tree can reach a height of 3 to 6 feet, making it a wonderful floor plant or statement piece. The Chinese Money Plant is much smaller, typically growing between 8 to 12 inches tall, making it a perfect resident for desks, shelves, and windowsills.

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The Ultimate Money Tree vs Chinese Money Plant Care Guide

Alright, let’s get our hands dirty! Understanding their different needs is crucial for helping them thrive. Here are the money tree vs chinese money plant best practices for care.

Lighting Needs: Finding the Sweet Spot

  • Money Tree: It loves bright, indirect light. Think of the dappled sunlight it would get under a tropical canopy. Direct, scorching sun will burn its leaves, but too little light will cause slow growth and yellowing. An east-facing window is often perfect.
  • Chinese Money Plant: Very similar! It also craves bright, indirect light. I’ve found my Pilea is happiest a few feet back from a south or west-facing window, or right in an east-facing one. Pro-tip: Rotate your Pilea every week to prevent it from leaning to one side and to ensure all those coin-like leaves get their turn in the sun.

Watering Wisdom: The “Soak and Dry” Method

Overwatering is the number one killer of both these plants! Here’s how to get it right.

  • Money Tree: This plant is surprisingly sensitive to “wet feet.” Water it thoroughly until water drains from the bottom, then allow the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry out completely before watering again. In my experience, this usually means watering every 1-2 weeks, depending on the season and humidity.
  • Chinese Money Plant: It prefers its soil to dry out a bit more than the Money Tree. Let the top 50% of the soil dry before giving it a good soak. Its leaves will start to droop slightly when it’s thirsty, which is a great visual cue!

The Perfect Soil Mix

Both plants need well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A standard, high-quality indoor potting mix is a good start, but you can improve it.

  • Money Tree: I recommend a peat-based mix amended with perlite or pumice to increase drainage. A cactus or succulent mix with a bit of added compost also works beautifully.
  • Chinese Money Plant: It thrives in a very airy, fast-draining mix. A simple recipe is one part indoor potting soil, one part perlite, and one part orchid bark. This ensures oxygen can get to the roots.

Humidity and Temperature

Both plants enjoy average home temperatures (65-80°F or 18-27°C). The Money Tree, being a tropical native, appreciates higher humidity. If your home is dry, consider placing it near a humidifier or on a pebble tray. The Chinese Money Plant is more forgiving of average household humidity.

Growth and Propagation: Sharing the Wealth

One of the joys of gardening is creating new plants to keep or share. Here’s how to money tree vs chinese money plant when it comes to propagation. This is where a sustainable money tree vs chinese money plant mindset really shines!

The Money Tree’s Journey

Propagating a Money Tree is a bit more involved but very rewarding. You can take a stem cutting with at least two nodes, let it callus over for a day, and then place it in water or directly into moist soil. It takes a bit of patience, but seeing new roots emerge is magical!

The Chinese Money Plant’s Gift of “Pups”

This is where the Pilea earns its “Pass-It-On” name! A healthy plant will send up tiny offshoots, or “pups,” through the soil and from its main stem. Once a pup is a few inches tall, you can gently sever its connection to the mother plant with a clean knife and plant it in its own pot. It’s an incredibly easy and eco-friendly money tree vs chinese money plant practice to share your plant wealth with friends.

Common Problems with Money Tree vs Chinese Money Plant (And How to Fix Them!)

Even with the best care, you might run into a snag. Don’t worry! Here’s a quick troubleshooting guide for the most common problems with money tree vs chinese money plant.

Why Are My Leaves Yellowing?

This is almost always a watering issue. For both plants, yellowing leaves at the base often signal overwatering. Check your soil! If it’s soggy, let it dry out completely. If leaves are crispy and yellowing all over, it could be underwatering.

Pesky Pests to Watch For

Both plants can fall prey to common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Inspect your plants regularly, especially the undersides of leaves. If you spot any, isolate the plant and treat it with a gentle insecticidal soap or neem oil solution.

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Leggy Growth and Drooping Leaves

“Leggy” growth (long, stretched-out stems with few leaves) on either plant is a clear sign it’s not getting enough light. Move it to a brighter spot. Drooping can be a sign of thirst (for the Pilea) or a more serious issue like root rot from overwatering (for both).

Benefits of Money Tree vs Chinese Money Plant: More Than Just a Pretty Face

Beyond their good looks, these plants are treasured for other reasons. Let’s explore the folklore and benefits of money tree vs chinese money plant.

The Feng Shui Connection

In Feng Shui, the Money Tree is a famous symbol of prosperity and good fortune. The five leaves on a stalk are said to represent the five elements of balance: earth, water, fire, wind, and metal. It’s often placed in the “wealth corner” of a home or office.

The Chinese Money Plant, with its coin-shaped leaves, is also considered a token of good luck and is thought to attract positive energy and financial abundance. Its propensity for producing pups symbolizes sharing that wealth.

Air-Purifying Powerhouses

Like many houseplants, both plants are excellent natural air purifiers. They help filter common indoor toxins from the air, creating a healthier and more pleasant living environment for you and your family.

Frequently Asked Questions About Money Tree vs Chinese Money Plant

Which one is easier for beginners?

This is a tough one! I’d say the Chinese Money Plant has a slight edge for beginners. Its visual cues for watering (the slight leaf droop) are very helpful, and its smaller size makes it easier to manage. The Money Tree can be a bit more finicky about its watering schedule.

Are they toxic to pets?

Great question for all pet parents! The Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. The Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides) is also considered non-toxic, making both of them safe choices for homes with furry friends.

Can I grow them outdoors?

Generally, it’s best to keep these as indoor plants unless you live in a very specific climate. The Money Tree can live outdoors in USDA zones 10-12. The Chinese Money Plant is much more sensitive to cold and direct sun and is almost exclusively grown as a houseplant.

So, Which Lucky Plant Will You Choose?

As we’ve seen, the choice in the money tree vs chinese money plant debate really comes down to your space and personal style. Both are fantastic, rewarding plants that bring so much life and character to a home.

If you’re looking for a larger, tree-like statement piece with a tropical vibe, the Money Tree is your perfect match. If you prefer a quirky, modern, and compact plant that’s easy to share, the Chinese Money Plant will steal your heart.

There’s no wrong answer here. The most important thing is to choose the plant that speaks to you. Whichever you bring home, you’re not just adding decor; you’re gaining a new green friend. Happy growing!

Rimon Chowdhury
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