Money Plant vs. Money Tree: Which One is the Best for Your Home

Indoor plants have been trending for quite some time now, and for good reasons. Not only do they add a touch of greenery to your home, but they also purify the air, reduce stress levels, and boost productivity.

Among the most popular indoor plants are the Money Plant and the Money Tree. These two plants have striking similarities, making it challenging to tell them apart.

In this article, we will explore the differences between Money Plant vs. Money Tree and which one is the best for your home.

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Money Plant vs. Money Tree: What are They?

Before we dive into the differences between the two plants, let’s first understand what they are.

Money Plant:

The Money Plant, also known as Devil’s Ivy or Pothos, is a trailing vine that belongs to the Araceae family. It is native to the Solomon Islands but is now grown worldwide as an indoor ornamental plant.

The Money Plant has heart-shaped leaves that are typically green, but some varieties have variegated leaves in shades of yellow and white.

It is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in low to medium light conditions.

Money Tree:

The Money Tree, also known as Pachira Aquatica, is a tropical plant that belongs to the Malvaceae family. It is native to Central and South America and is known for its braided trunk and large green leaves that resemble a hand with five fingers.

The Money Tree is believed to bring good luck and fortune in many cultures, and it is a popular gift for special occasions. It is also a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in low to medium light conditions.

Money Plant vs. Money Tree: Differences

Now that we know what Money Plant and Money Tree are let’s explore their differences.

1. Appearance:

The most apparent difference between Money Plant and Money Tree is their appearance. Money Plant has heart-shaped leaves that are relatively small compared to the Money Tree’s large, glossy leaves that resemble a hand with five fingers.

Money Plant is a trailing vine that can grow up to 20 feet long, while Money Tree has a braided trunk that can grow up to 6 feet tall.

2. Light Requirements:

Another significant difference between the two plants is their light requirements. Money Plant can thrive in low to medium light conditions and can even survive in artificial light.

On the other hand, Money Tree prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions for short periods.

3. Watering Needs:

Money Plant and Money Tree also have different watering needs. Money Plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate occasional dry spells. It is best to water it when the top inch of the soil is dry.

Money Tree, on the other hand, prefers to be kept on the drier side and can go for weeks without water. It is best to water it when the top two inches of the soil are dry.

4. Propagation:

Propagation is the process of growing new plants from existing ones. Money Plant can be propagated by stem cuttings, while Money Tree can be propagated by stem cuttings or air layering.

Air layering is a process where a portion of the stem is wrapped in moist moss or soil until roots form, and then the stem is cut off to create a new plant.

Money Plant vs. Money Tree: Similarities

Although Money Plant and Money Tree have some significant differences, they also have some striking similarities.

1. Low-Maintenance:

Both Money Plant and Money Tree are low-maintenance plants that require minimal care.

2. Air-Purifying:

Money Plant and Money Tree are both excellent air-purifying plants that can remove harmful toxins from the air, making them ideal for indoor environments.

3. Easy to Propagate:

Both Money Plant and Money Tree are easy to propagate, making them great plants for beginners. They can be grown from stem cuttings, which can be rooted in water or soil.

4. Versatile:

Both plants are versatile and can be grown in a variety of containers, from hanging baskets to decorative pots.

FAQs:

1. Can Money Plant and Money Tree be grown together?

Yes, Money Plant and Money Tree can be grown together, as they have similar light and watering requirements.

2. Is Money Plant poisonous to pets?

Yes, Money Plant is toxic to pets if ingested. It contains insoluble calcium oxalates, which can cause swelling, irritation, and difficulty swallowing.

3. Can Money Tree be grown in low light conditions?

Money Tree prefers bright, indirect light, but it can tolerate low light conditions for short periods.

Conclusion

Money Plant and Money Tree are two popular indoor plants that are low-maintenance, air-purifying, and easy to propagate. While they have some significant differences, such as their appearance, light and watering requirements, they also have some striking similarities.

When choosing between Money Plant vs. Money Tree, consider the amount of light and space you have available and your watering habits.

Ultimately, both plants are great additions to any indoor environment and can bring a touch of greenery and positive energy to your home.