Pachira Aquatica
Pachira Care
The Pachira has many nicknames like Water cocoa or money tree. The latter is because people in the Far East believe that the leaves of the plant can collect money. This makes this plant an excellent gift for a birthday, for example. The roots of this plant lie in the swamps of Eastern Brazil, Costa Rica and Panama. The Pachira comes from the Malvaceae family, better known as the mallow family.
– Find here the total range of the Pachira Aquatica -
Water
The Pachira differs slightly in terms of care from the other houseplants in our range. It is recommended to give a good splash of water every 3 weeks. Because the plant stores the water in the trunk, it is important that the soil is thoroughly dry before new water is given again. In summer, the soil can be a bit more humid than usual. The plant is sensitive to root rot. So make sure that the plant does not end up with wet feet. In the unlikely event that this does occur, you can solve it both biologically and chemically.
Spraying
The Pachira is sensitive to humidity. It is therefore also recommended, especially in winter when the heating makes the air dryer, to spray the plant regularly. Spraying is also good against leaf drop, dust and early vermin.
Light
The Pachira likes light, but does not tolerate direct sunlight as well. The best place for the plant is therefore in front of the window on the north, or 2 to 3 meters in front of the window on the east. These distances correspond to 3 to 5 hours of sunlight. A south-facing window is less suitable.
Maintenance
Yellow leaves are the result of too much sunlight. Deep dark leaves are the leaves of choice as they indicate that the foliage is healthy. If the leaves become lighter in color, it is advised to move the plant a meter forward.
The cause of browning leaves can also be caused by watering. Too much or too little water can also lead to leaf loss. In winter, leaf dropouts can also indicate air that is too dry. In this case, regularly spray the leaves with water.
Pruning
Ugly leaves cannot be prevented, that's just nature. These ugly leaves can be cut immediately. In addition, it is recommended to prune the Pachira back to the crown in the autumn. This ensures that the plant remains nicely compact without ugly shoots. A pruned trunk will make new shoots over time. Beware: when the Pachira is not pruned for a number of years, a long trunk without leaves will remain.
The Pachira will create almost no flowers in a living room. If this does happen, it is recommended to remove it as this will cost the plant a lot of effort.
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