Have you ever found yourself torn between choosing a Money Tree and an Umbrella Plant for your indoor jungle? Youre not alone! Both of these popular houseplants have their own unique charm, making them favorites among plant people. Whether youre drawn to the Money Trees braided trunk or the Umbrella Plants glossy leaves, its important to know what sets them apart.
In this article, well explore the differences between the Money Tree and the Umbrella Plant, including their care requirements, growth habits, and even how they can fit into your home decor. By the end, youll have a clear understanding of which plant might be the best fit for you.
Money trees and umbrella trees are two popular indoor plants known for their unique shapes and lush green foliage. But what exactly sets them apart? In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between money trees and umbrella trees to help you decide which one is best for your home
Appearance and Growth Habit
The most noticeable difference between these two plants is their appearance.
Money trees have a distinctive braided trunk formed by intertwining several young trees together. This gives them a braided, rope-like look. Their large, rounded green leaves spread out in a hand-shaped pattern. Money trees can grow up to 6 feet tall indoors. Their growth rate is moderate.
Umbrella trees, also known as schefflera, have glossy, oval-shaped green leaves that radiate out from branches in a spoked umbrella pattern. They have a single trunk. Indoors, umbrella trees typically reach 3-6 feet tall. Their bushy foliage spreads outward more than upward. Umbrella trees are fast growers.
Light Requirements
Both money trees and umbrella trees need bright, indirect light to thrive However, umbrella trees are a bit more forgiving if light levels drop
Money trees should be placed near an east, west, or south window where they receive plenty of filtered sunlight throughout the day. Direct sun will scorch their leaves.
Umbrella trees also prefer bright light but can tolerate lower light conditions. In low light, their growth will slow down but the plants will survive.
Watering and Humidity
Proper watering is key to keeping money trees and umbrella trees healthy. Both prefer to dry out slightly between waterings.
Money trees should be watered thoroughly about once every 1-2 weeks, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Overwatering leads to root rot.
Umbrella trees have a similar watering schedule, but may need more frequent watering in hot, dry weather. Let the top soil dry before re-wetting. These plants don’t like to sit in soggy soil.
Money trees and umbrella trees both enjoy average room humidity. Mist the plants or use a pebble tray to boost moisture if your home is very dry.
Soil Needs
The right potting mix provides proper drainage and moisture retention.
Money trees grow best in soil amended with perlite, sand, or gravel to improve drainage. Standard potting soil mixed with 25% perlite is ideal.
Umbrella trees prefer peat-based potting mixes that retain some moisture but still drain well. Adding perlite improves aeration and drainage.
Fertilizer
During spring and summer, both money trees and umbrella trees benefit from monthly fertilizing. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength. This nourishes plants during their active growing period.
Pruning
Pruning keeps money trees and umbrella trees shapely and manageable.
Money trees can be pruned as needed to control their height and shape. Cut back leggy stems and trim off any dead or damaged leaves.
Umbrella trees should be trimmed to remove dead leaves and reshape as desired. Don’t prune more than 20% of the plant at once to avoid shock.
Common Problems
Money trees and umbrella trees are prone to similar issues when their needs aren’t met.
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Drooping or yellowing leaves can indicate too much or too little water. Stick to a consistent watering schedule.
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Brown leaf tips and margins often signal dry air. Increase humidity around the plants.
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Leaf drop and root rot result from overwatering. Allow soil to partly dry before watering again.
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Mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects are common pests. Wipe leaves with insecticidal soap.
Decorating With Money Trees vs Umbrella Trees
When deciding between a money tree vs an umbrella tree for your home, think about the look you want to achieve.
Money trees work well as standalone statement pieces. Their braided trunks and large, rounded leaves create focal points. Place them in corners or areas needing visual weight.
Umbrella trees make excellent fillers and background plants. Position them behind smaller plants to act as lush backdrops of foliage. Their tiered, spreading leaves add depth.
Both can be incorporated into plant groupings. Mix heights, textures, and colors for attractive arrangements. Go for an exotic jungle vibe.
The Bottom Line
Money trees and umbrella trees both make excellent indoor plants, but they have some key differences:
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Money trees are braided with large, rounded leaves. Umbrella trees have tiered, spreading foliage.
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Money trees need very bright light. Umbrella trees adapt to lower light.
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Money trees have a moderate growth rate. Umbrella trees grow quickly.
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Money trees work well as stand-alone statement plants. Umbrella trees shine as fillers and backdrops.
Consider your home’s conditions, plant placement, and desired look and care commitment when choosing between these two great options for indoor trees. With the right care, both can thrive for years, purifying your air and adding natural beauty.
Meet the Umbrella Plant
The Umbrella Plant, scientifically known as Schefflera arboricola, is another fantastic option for indoor gardening enthusiasts. Its characterized by its glossy, umbrella-shaped leaves that can add a lush, tropical vibe to any room. Unlike the Money Tree, the Umbrella Plant doesnt have a braided trunk, but it makes up for it with its vibrant, dense foliage.
One of the appealing features of the Umbrella Plant is its versatility. It can adapt to different lighting conditions, from bright, indirect light to more shaded areas. However, for optimal growth, its best to place it in a well-lit spot. This plant can also tolerate some neglect, making it a great choice for busy individuals or those new to plant care.
When it comes to watering, the Umbrella Plant has similar needs to the Money Tree. It prefers to dry out between waterings, so youll want to water it thoroughly and then wait until the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch before watering again. This plant is also known to be sensitive to overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
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Have you ever found yourself torn between choosing a Money Tree and an Umbrella Plant for your indoor jungle? Youre not alone! Both of these popular houseplants have their own unique charm, making them favorites among plant people. Whether youre drawn to the Money Trees braided trunk or the Umbrella Plants glossy leaves, its important to know what sets them apart.
In this article, well explore the differences between the Money Tree and the Umbrella Plant, including their care requirements, growth habits, and even how they can fit into your home decor. By the end, youll have a clear understanding of which plant might be the best fit for you.
5 Money tree plant Problems & Solutions
FAQ
What are the disadvantages of an umbrella tree?
The roots of umbrella trees can pressurise building foundations and block plumbing joints and pipes. These disadvantages can be overcome by growing non invasive species that may include Celery Wood, Leopard Ash, Native Tamarind, and Wheel of Fire.
What is another name for an umbrella tree?
Schefflera, commonly called umbrella plants or trees, make excellent tropical houseplants. The larger Schefflera actinophylla features long, shiny, oval green leaves that droop gracefully from a central stalk, resembling an umbrella.
What is another name for a money tree?
A common name for the money tree plant, scientifically known as Pachira aquatica, is the Malabar chestnut. Other names include Guiana chestnut and water chestnut.
Where not to put a money tree?
Money plant should not be kept in the east-west direction. Instead, you can place money plant in north direction.Jun 27, 2025
Are these different plants related to the money tree?
In short, no, these are all distinctly different plants and are not related to the Money Tree. Each of these species belongs to its own family, and most are from entirely different regions. Read on to learn more about the differences in these types of plants, how to identify them, and what kind of care they need.
Are umbrella trees bushier than money trees?
But because the Umbrella Tree is a shrub, it tends to be much bushier than the Money Tree. When trying to decide which tree you own, a braided trunk is a dead giveaway. Money Trees (Pachira Aquatica) are the only ones that are sold with multiple trunks braided together. If you have a braided tree, you definitely have a Pachira Aquatica.
How tall does a money tree get?
These plants rarely exceed two feet in height when kept indoors. Is A Money Tree An Umbrella Tree? The most similar looking to the Pachira Aquatica (Money Tree) is the Schefflera Amate, also known as an Umbrella Tree. While the two do have some significant similarities, they belong to different families and different regions.
What is the difference between a money tree and a jade plant?
Money Trees and Jade Plants are entirely different plants, despite the fact that they share a nickname and have similar spiritual associations. The Jade Plant, scientifically known as Crassula Ovata, is a succulent native to South Africa and Mozambique. Despite being a succulent, the Jade Plant grows in a very similar way to most trees.
What is the difference between a money tree and a fig tree?
The most commonly confused with the Money Tree is the Ficus Benjamina, or the Weeping Fig Tree. While the two do resemble each other, again, these plants belong to different families and are native to completely different regions. This evergreen shrub is indigenous to Asia and Australia and is the official tree of Bangkok.
Are umbrella trees feng shui?
The Money Tree only grows five (which plays a part in its association with Feng Shui.) Like the Money Tree, Umbrella Trees prefer high humidity and respond well to misting. But because the Umbrella Tree is a shrub, it tends to be much bushier than the Money Tree. When trying to decide which tree you own, a braided trunk is a dead giveaway.