The Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) and the Umbrella Plant (Schefflera arboricola or Schefflera actinophylla) are popular houseplants, each bringing unique characteristics to indoor spaces. This article compares these two plants, detailing their visual differences, care requirements, symbolic meanings, and other traits to help you choose the one that best suits your home.
Visual Differences
The Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) often features a distinctive braided trunk, though it can also grow with a single, straight stem. Its leaves are palmately compound, meaning they radiate from a central point. Each leaf typically consists of five to nine glossy, green leaflets that are lance-shaped or obovate, measuring between 5 to 10 inches long. The overall appearance is lush and tropical.
In contrast, the Umbrella Plant, commonly Schefflera arboricola or Schefflera actinophylla, does not have a braided trunk. Its stems are unbraided and upright. The foliage is the most distinguishing feature, with glossy, palmate leaves that form umbrella-like clusters. For Schefflera arboricola, leaves usually have seven to nine oval leaflets, each measuring up to 4 inches long. The larger Schefflera actinophylla has more prominent leaves with seven or more leaflets that can reach up to 12 inches in length.
Care Requirements Comparison
Both the Money Tree and the Umbrella Plant thrive in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch Money Tree leaves, while an Umbrella Plant prefers protection from direct afternoon sun indoors. Lower light conditions for an Umbrella Plant may lead to leggy growth and smaller leaves.
The Money Tree is sensitive to overwatering, which can lead to root rot. It prefers its soil to dry out between waterings; a good practice is to water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. The Umbrella Plant also requires good drainage and for its soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Well-draining potting mix is crucial for both plants. For the Money Tree, a mix of peat moss, perlite, loam, or sand is recommended. The Umbrella Plant thrives in a rich, well-draining, and slightly acidic potting soil.
Both plants prefer warm temperatures, with the Money Tree doing best between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C), and the Umbrella Plant in a similar range of 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). Both are sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature changes, which can cause leaf drop.
The Money Tree appreciates higher humidity levels, ideally between 50-70%. Misting, pebble trays, or humidifiers can help maintain this. While the Umbrella Plant tolerates average household humidity, it also benefits from increased humidity, especially in dry environments.
Fertilizing during the growing season (spring and summer) is beneficial for both. A balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-4 weeks is suitable for the Money Tree, while the Umbrella Plant can be fed every two to three weeks during active growth.
Pruning helps maintain shape and encourage fuller growth for both plants. Common pests for Money Trees include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Umbrella Plants can also attract spider mites and mealybugs, particularly in dry conditions, and are susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Symbolism and Notable Characteristics
The Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) holds significant cultural symbolism, particularly in Feng Shui, where it is believed to attract good luck, prosperity, and financial success. Its often-braided trunk is thought to trap fortune within its folds, and the five leaflets commonly found on a stalk are said to represent the five elements of balance: earth, fire, water, wind, and metal. It is a popular gift for new businesses or housewarmings, symbolizing well wishes for abundance. The Money Tree is a relatively slower-growing plant, reminding one that financial prosperity often requires patience.
In contrast, the Umbrella Plant is known for its hardiness and relatively faster growth rate, typically growing 3 to 24 inches per year indoors. It can grow quite large, reaching 3 to 6 feet tall as a houseplant, and up to 10 feet or more with optimal conditions.
A crucial consideration for pet owners is the toxicity of these plants. The Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) is generally considered non-toxic to dogs, cats, and horses, though ingesting large amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. However, Umbrella Plants (Schefflera arboricola and Schefflera actinophylla) are considered toxic to pets due to the presence of insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, saponins, and terpenoids, which can cause oral irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested.
Choosing the Right Plant for Your Home
When deciding between a Money Tree and an Umbrella Plant, several factors should be considered. The available light conditions in your home play a role, as both prefer bright, indirect light, but the Umbrella Plant can tolerate slightly lower light, albeit with slower growth.
Your commitment level to plant care is also a factor; while both are relatively easy, the Money Tree’s sensitivity to overwatering requires careful attention.
The amount of space available will influence your choice, as Umbrella Plants tend to grow larger and faster than Money Trees, requiring more room or regular pruning.
For pet owners, the Money Tree is generally a safer option, given its non-toxic classification. Conversely, if pet safety is not a concern and you desire a robust, faster-growing plant that can fill a larger space, the Umbrella Plant might be an ideal choice.