How to Grow and Care for the Hakira Plant (Money Tree)
Go beyond basic survival for your Money Tree. This guide provides a holistic approach to care, helping you foster lush growth and long-term vitality.
The name “Hakira” is often a common name or misspelling for Pachira aquatica. This popular houseplant is more widely recognized as the Money Tree. Its reputation as an easy-to-care-for plant makes it a frequent choice for homes and offices, where its distinctive appearance becomes a standout feature.
Identifying the Hakira Plant
The most recognizable feature of the Money Tree is its braided trunk. This plait is not a natural occurrence; it became a tradition in the 1980s, started by a truck driver in Taiwan who believed the plants looked better that way. The trunk is topped with large, glossy green palmate leaves, which have leaflets that radiate from a central point, often in a group of five.
Native to the wetlands of Central and South America, Pachira aquatica can grow to significant heights in its natural habitat. As an indoor plant, its size is much more contained, reaching six to eight feet in maturity. Its cultural significance is tied to Feng Shui practices, where the five leaflets represent the five elements and the braided stem is believed to capture good fortune.
Essential Care Guidelines
Light
The Money Tree thrives in bright, indirect sunlight for at least six hours per day. Place it near a south or east-facing window, but protect it from direct sun, which can scorch the leaves. While the plant tolerates lower light, its growth may slow. It also adapts well to fluorescent lighting, making it a good choice for offices.
Watering
The Money Tree stores water in its trunk, so it does not require frequent watering. Water the plant thoroughly only when the top two inches of soil have become dry. Overwatering is a common mistake that can lead to root rot, so letting the soil dry out is important. During the fall and winter, when the plant is not actively growing, watering should be reduced.
Soil
A well-draining potting mix is needed to prevent water from pooling around the roots. A peat moss-based mix is recommended because it provides good drainage and the slightly acidic soil conditions the plant prefers, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The soil should retain some moisture without becoming waterlogged.
Temperature and Humidity
Money Trees prefer a warm and humid environment with temperatures between 12-24°C (54-75°F) and should be kept above 10°C (50°F). Since they thrive in humidity, placing them in a bright bathroom is an excellent option. To increase humidity, you can mist the leaves regularly or place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water.
Fertilizer
A balanced liquid fertilizer supports the plant during its active growing season from spring through summer. Apply it once a month, diluted to half-strength, to the soil around the plant’s root zone. Feeding should be paused during the fall and winter months when the plant’s growth naturally slows down.
Pruning and Shaping
Pruning is beneficial for maintaining the Money Tree’s size and encouraging a fuller, more compact shape. The best time to prune is in the spring, just before the main growing season begins. Use sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears to cut back any overgrown, damaged, or dead leaves and stems.
If one of the stems in the braid dies, the dead stem should be carefully removed to prevent decay from spreading to the healthy stems. Gently untwist the braid just enough to pull out the dead portion, and then re-secure the remaining stems if necessary. This action helps maintain the plant’s health.
Common Problems and Solutions
Even with careful attention, a few problems can arise with a Money Tree:
- Yellowing Leaves: This is a frequent issue and is most often a sign of overwatering. The leaves may also turn yellow if the plant is underwatered, so check the soil moisture to determine the cause and adjust your watering routine.
- Sudden Leaf Drop: This is often triggered by abrupt changes in the plant’s environment, like moving it to a new location with different light or temperature. Once you find a suitable spot, it is best to keep it there.
- Root Rot: This serious condition is caused by excessive watering and soil that doesn’t drain well. If the soil remains soggy, the roots can decay, leading to wilting leaves. To prevent this, ensure the pot has drainage holes.
- Pests: Common culprits include spider mites and mealybugs. Regularly inspecting the undersides of leaves can help you catch an infestation early. If pests are present, they can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.