The “Money Plant” is a fixture in homes and offices worldwide, valued for its lush, trailing foliage and reputation for being easy to maintain. This popular houseplant is associated with themes of prosperity and wealth, lending it cultural significance. Its resilient nature allows it to thrive even under neglect, making it an excellent choice for novice plant enthusiasts.
Defining the Money Plant: Identity and Folklore
The common name “Money Plant” is applied to several species, causing frequent confusion. The two most common are the vining Epipremnum aureum (Pothos or Devil’s Ivy) and the tree-like Pachira aquatica (Money Tree). The care instructions below focus primarily on Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), which is the most common houseplant interpretation of the name.
The association with wealth and fortune has roots in cultural folklore and Feng Shui. For Pothos, the name originated because its heart-shaped leaves resemble coins, suggesting abundance. A thriving plant is believed to bring financial success and positive energy. In Feng Shui, it is used to attract “chi” and is often placed in the wealth corner of a home to promote prosperity.
Essential Environmental Requirements
Successful cultivation begins with providing a stable environment. Pothos can tolerate low light, earning it the nickname “Devil’s Ivy” for remaining green in dark conditions. However, the plant thrives best in bright, indirect light, which encourages faster growth and maintains vibrant variegation. Too much direct sun can scorch the foliage, while insufficient light may cause variegated patterns to fade to solid green.
Pothos is native to tropical forests and prefers a warm environment, with ideal temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. It is sensitive to cold; temperatures consistently below 50°F can damage the foliage. While the plant tolerates average household humidity, it flourishes with higher moisture levels, which can be provided by grouping plants or using a pebble tray.
The soil mixture requires excellent drainage to prevent waterlogging and root issues. A standard, well-aerated houseplant potting mix is sufficient, often amended with materials like perlite or orchid bark to enhance porosity.
Watering and Fertilization Techniques
A responsive watering schedule is more beneficial than adhering to a rigid timetable. The most effective technique is the “soak and dry” method: water deeply until liquid runs from the drainage holes, but only after the soil has dried out significantly. The plant needs water when the top two inches of soil are completely dry, or when the leaves show a slight, temporary droop.
Overwatering is the most common cause of decline, as saturated soil starves the roots of oxygen and leads to root rot. Watering frequency decreases during winter months when growth slows. During the active growing season (spring and summer), Pothos benefits from regular, light feeding.
Use a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer, applied once per month at a diluted strength. Pothos are not heavy feeders, and excessive fertilization can cause a buildup of mineral salts that burn the roots. Suspend fertilizer application entirely during the cooler winter months when the plant is not actively growing.
Long-Term Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Routine maintenance ensures the plant maintains a desirable shape and healthy foliage. Pruning encourages a bushier plant, as cutting back long, leggy vines stimulates new growth near the base. When pruning, use a sterile, sharp tool to make a cut just below a leaf node.
Cuttings can easily be used to propagate new plants, as Pothos roots readily in water or moist soil. Submerging the node in water leads to root development within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be potted. Discoloration often points to a watering problem: yellowing leaves signal overwatering and root distress, while brown, crispy edges indicate underwatering or low humidity.
Pothos is generally pest-resistant but occasionally attracts common pests like spider mites or mealybugs. These are managed by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or applying a horticultural oil, such as neem oil. Note that all parts of Epipremnum aureum contain calcium oxalate crystals, making the plant mildly toxic if ingested by pets or children.