Pachira aquatica, commonly known as Malabar chestnut or money tree when sold as a houseplant, is a tropical wetland tree native to the rainforests and riverbanks of Mexico, Central and South America. It can reach up to 59 feet (18 meters) in its natural habitat, where it thrives in areas with high humidity and regular rainfall. The tree is characterized by its shiny green palmate leaves with lanceolate leaflets and a smooth, greenish bark. Pachira aquatica is particularly noted for its large, showy flowers that bloom throughout the year in its native range, featuring long, narrow petals and prominent, hair-like stamens that are cream or white with a pinkish base, creating a striking display.

The Malabar chestnut is valued for its ornamental qualities, including its distinctive braided trunk when cultivated as a houseplant. It is believed to bring good financial fortune, which makes it a popular gift. This tree is adaptable to a range of indoor conditions, making it relatively easy to maintain. It prefers bright, indirect light and regular watering, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot. In outdoor cultivation, it is used in landscaping for its attractive foliage and flowers, often planted in moist, frost-free areas. Pachira aquatica is also recognized for its ability to improve indoor air quality by reducing volatile organic compounds (VOCs).CC BY-SA 4.0