Discover the history of Chinese Money Tree (Pachira aquatica), including how the plant got its common name. Chinese Money Tree has a very interesting history. There is a legend surrounding the plant, as well as the true history. Find out who made the Chinese Money Tree popular in the 1980s, and how. Chinese Money Tree is considered a symbol of good luck. The tree is a favored plant in feng shui.
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Today, I have a plant story for you. This is the history of the Chinese money tree, botanically known as Pachira aquatica.
I do have a care video on this plant if you want to know how to care for it. This video is going to cover the fascinating history of the Chinese money tree.
There is a legend surrounding the money tree—and also the true history. Let’s start with the legend:
It is said that many centuries ago, a Taiwanese farmer, who had been praying for good fortune, found a small Pachira plant growing in his field. He found the plant beautiful and had the idea to raise the trees to sell them and make money.
He did so and soon became one of the wealthiest farmers in Taiwan, owing his good fortune to the Pachira tree, which was then nicknamed the money tree.
Now for the real story, which is almost as interesting:
In the 1980s, a man named Lou made Pachira plants popular when he braided their stems. He found that he only had to braid the stems in the early stages of growth when the stems were pliable, and then they would continue to grow in a braid as they matured.
I’m showing you a photo of a braided trunk right now.
People began to try the technique, and the Pachira gained popularity in Taiwan, soon spreading across the globe.
Today, you’ll find Pachira plants growing throughout Asia, Europe, and North America, including the U.S., where they are also very popular.
Pachira plants are becoming especially popular for bonsai as well because they are much easier to care for than many traditional bonsai plants.
Pachira has gained great significance in Asia, where it is often decorated with red ribbons and other ornaments. It is also considered a symbol of good luck.
Practitioners of Feng Shui add money trees to homes to create positive energy and bring good fortune to the home and its occupants.
The branches generally each have five leaves, said to represent the five fundamental Feng Shui elements: wood, water, fire, earth, and metal.
Though rare, you may find a branch with six or even seven leaves. If you find such a branch—get ready—because it signifies very great fortune!
There you go—the history of the Chinese money tree and how it got its name.
Whether or not you believe it will bring you good fortune, it’s still fun to have this really easy-to-grow plant that will light up your indoor garden.
It also makes a really fun conversation starter for visitors to your home.
Thank you for stopping by today!
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FAQ About the History of the Chinese Money Tree
What is the legend behind the Chinese money tree?
The legend says a Taiwanese farmer discovered a Pachira plant after praying for good fortune. He cultivated and sold the trees, becoming very wealthy.
Who popularized the Chinese money tree’s braided trunks?
In the 1980s, a man named Lou popularized the practice of braiding Pachira stems while they were young and pliable, helping the plant gain worldwide popularity.
Why is the money tree considered lucky?
In Feng Shui, the money tree symbolizes positive energy and good fortune. Its five-leaf arrangement represents the five elements: wood, water, fire, earth, and metal.
Where is the Chinese money tree popular today?
The Chinese money tree is popular across Asia, Europe, and North America, especially in the U.S., where it is also favored for bonsai cultivation.
What does it mean if a money tree branch has six or seven leaves?
Finding a branch with six or seven leaves is considered extremely lucky and is thought to signify very great fortune according to Feng Shui traditions.
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