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The Comprehensive Guide to the Money plant
The Comprehensive Guide to the Money Plant
The “money plant” is a common term used for several different houseplants, most notably Epipremnum aureum, also known as pothos or devil’s ivy. These plants are popular for their easy care, air-purifying qualities, and the belief that they bring good fortune. While the term “money plant” is often associated with feng shui and prosperity, it’s important to understand the botanical realities and practical aspects of growing these versatile indoor companions.
Understanding the “Money Plant” Terminology
The term “money plant” can be confusing because it refers to multiple species. Here’s a breakdown:
Epipremnum aureum (Pothos/Devil’s Ivy)
This is the most common plant referred to as the “money plant.” It’s a vining plant with heart-shaped leaves, often variegated with yellow or white. It’s incredibly adaptable and can thrive in various indoor conditions.
Pachira aquatica (Money Tree)
Often sold with a braided trunk, the money tree is another plant associated with prosperity. It has large, palmate leaves and is believed to bring good luck, especially in business.
Crassula ovata (Jade Plant)
The jade plant, with its thick, succulent leaves, is also sometimes called a money plant. Its coin-shaped leaves contribute to its association with wealth.
Lunaria annua (Honesty/Silver Dollar Plant)
This plant is not a houseplant, but a garden plant known for its translucent seed pods that resemble coins. Although not the typical money plant, it’s worth mentioning due to its monetary association.
Focusing on Epipremnum aureum (Pothos)
For the remainder of this article, we will focus on Epipremnum aureum, the most commonly recognized “money plant.”
Botanical Characteristics
Pothos is a member of the Araceae family, which includes other popular houseplants like philodendrons and monsteras. It’s native to the Solomon Islands and Southeast Asia. Its leaves are typically heart-shaped and can vary in color, from solid green to variegated with yellow, white, or light green. The variegation is due to a lack of chlorophyll in certain areas of the leaf.
Growth Habits
Pothos is a vigorous vining plant that can grow quite long if given the opportunity. It can be trained to climb a support or allowed to trail from a hanging basket. It’s known for its ability to adapt to low-light conditions, making it a popular choice for offices and homes with limited natural light.
Air Purification
One of the significant benefits of growing pothos is its ability to purify the air. Studies have shown that it can remove toxins like formaldehyde, xylene, and benzene from indoor environments. This makes it a valuable addition to any home or office.
Caring for Your Money Plant (Pothos)
Pothos is known for its low-maintenance nature, making it an excellent choice for beginner plant enthusiasts.
Light Requirements
Pothos can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, from low to bright, indirect light. However, it thrives best in medium to bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. Variegated varieties may lose their variegation in very low light.
Watering
Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering is a common problem and can lead to root rot. To check the soil moisture, insert your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. Water thoroughly until water drains out of the pot’s drainage holes.
Soil
Use a well-draining potting mix. A standard houseplant potting mix is usually sufficient. You can also add perlite or orchid bark to improve drainage.
Temperature and Humidity
Pothos prefers temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C and 29°C). It can tolerate average household humidity, but it appreciates higher humidity levels. You can increase humidity by misting the plant, placing it on a pebble tray with water, or using a humidifier.
Fertilizing
Feed your pothos every 2-3 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Pruning and Propagation
Pruning can help keep your pothos bushy and prevent it from becoming leggy. You can also propagate pothos from stem cuttings. Simply cut a stem just below a node (the point where a leaf emerges) and place it in water or moist soil. Roots will typically develop within a few weeks.
Repotting
Repot your pothos every 1-2 years, or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Use fresh potting mix and gently loosen the roots before placing the plant in the new pot.
Feng Shui and the Money Plant
In feng shui, pothos is considered a symbol of wealth and prosperity. It’s believed to bring positive energy and good fortune to the home or office. Here are some feng shui tips for placing your money plant:
Placement
Place your pothos in the southeast corner of your home or office, which is the wealth corner in feng shui. You can also place it near the entrance to attract positive energy.
Avoid Bedrooms
It’s generally recommended to avoid placing pothos in bedrooms, as it’s believed to disrupt sleep due to its vigorous growth.
Healthy Growth
Ensure your pothos is healthy and thriving. A healthy plant symbolizes positive energy and good fortune. Remove any dead or yellow leaves promptly.
Common Problems and Solutions
Yellowing Leaves
Overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiencies can cause yellowing leaves. Adjust your watering schedule and fertilize as needed.
Brown Leaf Tips
Dry air or underwatering can cause brown leaf tips. Increase humidity and ensure the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Leggy Growth
Insufficient light can cause leggy growth. Move your pothos to a brighter location.
Pests
Pothos can be susceptible to pests like mealybugs and spider mites. Inspect your plant regularly and treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Varieties of Pothos
There are several varieties of pothos, each with unique leaf patterns and colors:
Golden Pothos
The most common variety, with green leaves variegated with yellow.
Marble Queen Pothos
Features white and green variegation, creating a marbled effect.
Snow Queen Pothos
Similar to Marble Queen, but with more white variegation.
Neon Pothos
Bright, chartreuse leaves that add a pop of color.
Satin Pothos (Scindapsus pictus)
Technically not a true pothos, but often grouped with them. It has velvety, heart-shaped leaves with silver markings.
The Money Plant: A Symbol of Prosperity and Well-Being
Whether you believe in its feng shui benefits or simply appreciate its beauty and easy care, the money plant (pothos) is a valuable addition to any indoor space. Its air-purifying qualities, adaptability, and aesthetic appeal make it a beloved houseplant for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. By providing proper care and attention, you can enjoy the lush greenery and potential good fortune that this versatile plant brings.
Remember that while the “money plant” is associated with prosperity, true wealth comes from hard work, dedication, and a positive mindset. Let your pothos be a reminder of growth, resilience, and the beauty of nature.
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