Do you think that an umbrella plant, jade plant, palm plant, or ficus plant might be its money tree? It’s important to remember that the Money Tree is not the same as an umbrella tree, ficus plant, jade plant, or palm plant. Each plant belongs to its own plant family and has unique characteristics. Our blog will help you quickly figure out which of these plants is best for your home by breaking down the differences and similarities between them.
No, a money tree is not the same as an umbrella plant, a ficus, a jade plant, or a palm. Each of these plants has a different body and physiology, and some are even from different species.
Money Tree vs Umbrella Tree: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to indoor greenery, two popular choices are the money tree and umbrella tree. At first glance, they may seem quite similar. However, there are some key differences between these two plants that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the basics of each tree, compare their characteristics, ideal growing conditions, and potential problems. We’ll also touch on the cultural symbolism and history behind the money tree and umbrella tree. Let’s dive in!
Understanding the Basics
First, let’s look at some background on each plant.
The Money TreeThe money tree scientifically known as Pachira aquatica, is a tropical plant native to Central and South America. It gets its name from the belief in feng shui and Chinese culture that the braided trunk design can bring financial luck and prosperity. The “aquatica” species name hints at its preference for moist, humid conditions.
In the wild, the money tree grows in swamps and wetlands, reaching towering heights up to 60 feet. But as a houseplant, it stays much smaller, usually topping out around 6-8 feet tall. It’s characterized by a stout braided trunk and vibrant evergreen leaves that fan out like a palm. The leaves emerge directly from the trunk in a whorl shape.
The relatively slow growth rate makes the money tree a low-maintenance houseplant. With proper care, a money tree can live for decades, becoming a treasured living heirloom passed down through generations.
The Umbrella TreeThe umbrella tree also called Schefflera or octopus tree, refers to a genus of shrubs and trees within the Araliaceae family. The most popular indoor variety grown is Schefflera arboricola. This species earns its common name from the unique umbrella-like arrangement of its foliage.
Native to Taiwan and Hainan Island, the umbrella tree has glossy green palmate leaves. Each leaf has 5-8 finger-like leaflets that radiate out from a central point like spokes of an umbrella. The leaves are grouped in whorls along gracefully arching stems, creating a delicate, lacy appearance.
In the home, umbrella trees reach about 4-6 feet tall. But in their native tropical habitat, they can tower as high as 40 feet The umbrella tree is faster growing than the money tree, with some varieties putting out several feet of new growth per year with proper care
Appearance and Structure
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s compare their visual differences. The money tree has a short, stout trunk with thick foliage concentrated near the top. The braided trunk design gives it a very unique artistic look.
Meanwhile, the umbrella tree has an open, spreading shape with lots of space between leaves. Its growth habit tends toward taller and more slender rather than bushy. The tiny leaflets arranged in spoke-like fashion are the hallmark feature that gives the umbrella tree its name.
Growth Rate and Size
In terms of growth habits, the umbrella tree grows rapidly and can reach lofty heights rather quickly. Under optimal indoor conditions, it’s not unusual for a young umbrella tree to put out several feet of new growth in a single year.
The money tree, on the other hand, progresses at a much more leisurely pace. Its growth is slow and steady, adding just a few inches of height annually. For those seeking a more compact, low-maintenance houseplant, the money tree’s modest growth rate makes it an excellent choice. Its final indoor height ranges from about 6-8 feet.
Cultural Symbolism
Beyond physical differences, the money tree and umbrella tree carry deep cultural symbolism. In feng shui, the money tree represents good fortune and abundance. Its braided trunk is thought to amplify its power to draw in prosperity. The umbrella tree also has cultural roots, especially in ancient Hawaiian culture where it was seen as a spiritual plant associated with the hula goddess Laka.
Care Requirements
While visually different, both the money tree and umbrella tree share similarities in their care needs as tropical trees native to humid environments. Here are some key care tips to keep each one looking its best.
Money Tree Care
- Bright indirect light
- Average room temperatures of 65-75°F
- Allow soil to partially dry out between waterings
- High humidity
- Well-draining soil
Umbrella Tree Care
- Bright filtered light or moderate shade
- Consistent temperatures of 65-75°F
- Keep soil evenly moist
- Mist leaves frequently for humidity
- Slightly acidic soil
The umbrella tree is a bit more demanding when it comes to its water, light, and soil preferences. The money tree is more flexible and forgiving if conditions are not perfect. Go a little easy on the watering for the money tree, but the umbrella tree prefers more frequent drinks.
Troubleshooting Problems
With good care, both trees are generally vigorous and resilient. But they can encounter a few issues:
Money tree problems
- Root rot from overwatering
- Mealybugs, spider mites
- Leaf drop from low humidity
Umbrella tree problems
- Leaf scorch if exposed to direct sun
- Root rot from soggy soil
- Aphids, scale insects
By monitoring moisture levels, providing adequate humidity, and keeping leaves clean, you can avoid most pitfalls and keep your money tree or umbrella tree thriving indoors.
The money tree and umbrella tree share similarities as tropical indoor plants, but have distinct differences that set them apart in terms of appearance, growth habit, and care needs. No matter which one you choose to welcome into your home, both provide graceful, verdant beauty and a touch of the tropics. With the proper care outlined here, you can maintain a healthy, thriving money tree or umbrella tree to enjoy for years to come.
Maintenance & Care Requirements
- Low-maintenance plant
- Thrives in bright, indirect light
- Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot
- Sensitive to overwatering
- Requires more attention compared to the Money Tree
- Needs bright to moderate light
- Thrives in slightly acidic soil mix
What is a money tree?
The Money Tree, whose scientific name is Pachira Aquatica, is a popular houseplant that is also known as the Malabar Chestnut, the Saba, and the Guyana Nut. Despite these different names, they all point to the same plant. It’s striking plant from the swamps of Central and South America. Multiple Money Trees are often braided together, a style popularized in the 1980s.
Pichara Aquatica Known for its braided trunk and bright green, hand-shaped leaves, it thrives in humid environments. The Money Tree can get very tall in the wild and have big, fragrant flowers with seeds that, when roasted, taste like peanuts.
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FAQ
Are umbrella and money tree the same?
What are the disadvantages of umbrella trees?
What is another name for the umbrella tree?
What is the real name for a money tree?
What is the difference between a money tree and a umbrella tree?
When trying to identify the difference between a Money Tree and an Umbrella Tree, a braided trunk is a key indicator. Money Trees (Pachira Aquatica) are the only ones that are sold with multiple trunks braided together. Umbrella Trees, on the other hand, are shrubs and tend to be much bushier.
Is an Umbrella Tree suitable for Feng Shui?
An Umbrella Tree, like the Money Tree, prefers high humidity and responds well to misting. However, due to its shrubby nature, it is much bushier than the Money Tree. When trying to identify which tree you own, a braided trunk is a distinguishing feature.
What is the difference between a money tree and a fig tree?
The most commonly confused plants are the Money Tree and the Ficus Benjamina, or the Weeping Fig Tree. Although they resemble each other, these plants belong to different families and are native to different regions. The Ficus Benjamina is an evergreen shrub that is indigenous to Asia and Australia and is the official tree of Bangkok.
Is a Money Tree the same as a Ficus Tree?
A Money Tree is not the same as a Ficus Tree. The Ficus Tree has fuller foliage and requires more light due to being actual shrubs. A Money Tree, if left in the same conditions as a Ficus Tree, would not survive well.
Is a palm tree a money tree?
Palms are a distinct group of plants, but they are not Money Trees. There are several different varieties of palm that are kept as houseplants, including the Parlor Palm, the Ponytail Palm, and the Majesty Palm.
How tall does an Umbrella Tree get?
An Umbrella Tree can reach up to 15 feet tall in its native climate.