The money plant, scientifically known as Epipremnum aureum or Pothos, is a widely favored houseplant prized for its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves. Finding the correct position involves balancing its biological needs for optimal growth with cultural beliefs about attracting prosperity and wealth. Careful placement ensures the plant remains healthy while maximizing its supposed energetic benefits in the home environment. Choosing where to position this vine influences both the aesthetic appeal of a room and the perceived flow of positive energy.
Optimal Environmental Conditions for Placement
The physical placement of the money plant must first satisfy its basic requirements to ensure robust health and growth. This tropical vine thrives best in locations that provide bright, indirect light, which fuels photosynthesis without scorching the foliage.
Leaves with variegation (splashes of white or yellow) maintain their distinct patterns most effectively in medium to high light levels, typically between 50 and 800 lux. Placing the plant in low-light areas, such as a dark corner, will cause its growth to slow significantly, and the variegation may fade to solid green.
Temperatures between 15°C to 29°C (60°F to 85°F) are ideal, reflecting the plant’s native tropical habitat. Avoid placing the pot near external doors, drafty windows, or air conditioning and heating vents, as sudden temperature fluctuations stress the plant.
While Pothos is adaptable to typical household humidity, it benefits from moderate air moisture, ideally between 40% and 60%. Positioning the plant in a naturally humid space, like a brightly lit bathroom, can support lusher growth, though this must be balanced with cultural considerations.
Placement According to Vastu Shastra and Feng Shui
Beyond horticultural needs, the money plant’s placement is often guided by the principles of Vastu Shastra and Feng Shui, which focus on harmonizing energy flow.
In Vastu Shastra, the southeast corner of a room is considered the most auspicious location for the money plant. This direction is associated with Lord Ganesha and the planet Venus, symbolizing wealth, prosperity, and the removal of obstacles. Placing the plant here is thought to attract continuous financial growth and positive energy into the dwelling.
The practices of Feng Shui also designate the southeast area of a home or office as the “Wealth and Money Bagua area.” Placing the plant in this corner is intended to enhance the energy of abundance and financial prosperity.
A common belief across both traditions is that the plant’s vines should always be encouraged to grow upward, symbolizing climbing growth and increasing fortunes. Allowing the vines to trail down toward the floor is viewed as representing a drain on wealth or stagnated growth. Some Vastu experts suggest placing the plant in the North direction, which is linked to opportunities for career growth and new sources of income.
Prohibited Locations and Safety Considerations
Energetic and practical concerns dictate certain locations that should be avoided within the home. According to Vastu, the northeast corner is inauspicious, as this direction is ruled by Jupiter. Placing the Venus-ruled money plant here is believed to lead to financial losses or family conflicts. The bathroom is also considered a prohibited location, as it is thought to drain the positive energy and wealth the plant is meant to attract.
From a safety perspective, every part of the Epipremnum aureum contains microscopic calcium oxalate crystals. When ingested, these crystals cause immediate, intense pain, burning, and swelling. This inherent toxicity means the plant must be placed well out of the reach of small children and household pets, such as cats and dogs. Hanging planters or high shelves are the safest options to prevent accidental ingestion.