Few plants carry as much presence, or as much good feeling, as the Money Tree. Properly Pachira aquatica, and known along the way as Malabar Chestnut, Guiana Chestnut or Provision Tree, this is a tropical tree whose glossy, hand shaped leaves fan out in whorls of five to seven leaflets from the top of a beautifully braided trunk. At this size it's a proper floor standing specimen, the kind of green statement that anchors a room.

It comes from the wetlands and riverbanks of Central and South America, and that origin tells you everything about how to keep it happy. It likes consistent moisture and warmth, but never wet feet. Helpfully, its thick trunk stores water, so it would far rather you under watered than over loved it. Overwatering is the one thing that catches most people out. Give it bright, indirect light, a warm spot away from draughts and the odd mist, and it'll reward you generously. This is a fast grower that quickly pushes out fresh, canopy like growth, and a gentle pinch of the tips now and then keeps it lush and bushy.

There's a good feeling built in, too. Under feng shui, a well-placed Money Tree is said to create positive energy and chi, with the braided trunk locking in good fortune and the five-lobed leaves inviting luck and prosperity. It's exactly why it's such a well-loved gift for birthdays, weddings and housewarmings. Best of all, it's genuinely non-toxic and safe around curious pets and children.

Care at a glance

Light: Bright, indirect, with a little light shade tolerated but no harsh direct sun

Water: When the top of the soil has become slightly dry, go easy on watering, especially in winter, to avoid root rot

Humidity: Happy in average rooms, lusher with regular misting or a steamy spot like a kitchen or bathroom

Temperature: 16 to 24°C, kept above 10°C

Feed: Monthly through the growing season with a balanced fertiliser

Note: Non-toxic and pet friendly

As a living plant, every Money Tree is a little different, so height and shape vary from one to the next and yours will be one of a kind.

Please note, this plant is available for store-collection or local delivery only.