If you’re thinking about adding a money tree to your home, you might be wondering how tall do money trees grow indoors. This popular houseplant, known for its braided trunk and lush leaves, has a manageable indoor growth habit that makes it perfect for many spaces.
Understanding its potential size helps you pick the right spot and care for it properly. With the right conditions, your money tree can be a long-lasting and attractive part of your indoor garden for many years.
How Tall Do Money Trees Grow Indoors
Indoors, a money tree typically reaches a height of 6 to 8 feet. However, this is not a fixed rule. Most specimens you’ll see in homes are kept between 3 and 6 feet tall through selective pruning and pot size.
Their growth rate is generally considered moderate. You can expect about 1 to 2 feet of new growth per year when the plant is young and conditions are ideal. Growth slows down as the plant matures.
Key Factors That Control Indoor Height
Several elements in your care routine directly influence how big your plant will get. By managing these, you have a lot of control over its final size.
Pot Size and Root Space
The pot is a primary growth limiter. A money tree’s roots need room to expand to support new top growth.
- In a small pot, growth will slow or stop as the roots become crowded.
- Repotting into a pot 1-2 inches larger every 2-3 years encourages continued growth.
- A very large pot from the start can lead to overwatering issues, so size up gradually.
Light Availability
Light is the engine for growth. Without enough, growth becomes leggy and stunted.
- Bright, indirect light is best for strong, compact growth.
- Low light will cause the plant to grow very slowly and become stretched out.
- Some morning direct sun is okay, but harsh afternoon sun can scorch the leaves.
Pruning and Shaping
This is your most direct tool for controlling height and shape. Regular pruning keeps the plant bushy.
- To encourage branching, cut back a leggy stem just above a leaf node.
- You can remove the top of the main stem to halt upward growth and promote fullness.
- Always use clean, sharp shears to make clean cuts.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Managing Height
If you want to keep your money tree at a specific size, follow this simple plan.
- Choose the Right Pot: Start with a pot that has drainage holes and is just slightly larger than the root ball. Avoid the temptation to overpot.
- Find the Perfect Light: Place it near an east-facing window or a few feet back from a south or west window. Rotate the pot a quarter turn each week for even growth.
- Water Wisely: Water thoroughly when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Never let it sit in soggy soil, as root rot will stop growth completely.
- Prune for Purpose: In spring or early summer, prune any stems that are getting to tall. Cut them back to your desired height, just above a set of leaves.
- Fertilize for Health: Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month in spring and summer. Do not fertilize in fall and winter when growth naturally slows.
Common Problems That Stunt Growth
Sometimes, a money tree’s growth stalls for reasons other than natural limits. Here’s what to look for.
Overwatering and Root Rot
This is the number one killer of indoor money trees. Soggy soil suffocates roots, making them unable to absorb nutrients or water, which halts growth. Signs include yellowing leaves, a soft trunk, and a musty soil smell.
Insufficient Light
In deep shade, the plant simply can’t produce enough energy. Growth will be extremly slow, new leaves will be small, and the stems will stretch awkwardly toward any light source.
Pest Infestations
Sap-sucking pests like spider mites, scale, or mealybugs can weaken the plant. They drain the plant’s resources, diverting energy away from growth. Check the undersides of leaves regularly.
Nutrient Deficiency
While not frequent, a total lack of fertilizer in a plant that hasn’t been repotted in years can lead to pale leaves and no new growth. The soil’s nutrients do eventually get used up.
Encouraging Healthy, Balanced Growth
To help your money tree reach its full, beautiful potential within your space, focus on consistent care.
- Maintain Humidity: These plants prefer moderate humidity. Misting the leaves, using a pebble tray, or placing a humidifier nearby can prevent leaf tip browning.
- Clean the Leaves: Gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth every few weeks. This removes dust and allows the plant to absorb more light efficiently for photosynthesis.
- Check for Tight Braids: If your tree has a braided trunk, inspect the base as it grows. Sometimes the braid can become to tight and constrict the stems. You may need to gently adjust it or even cut the ties if it was secured with wire.
FAQ: Your Money Tree Height Questions Answered
Can I keep my money tree small forever?
Yes, you can. By keeping it in a smaller pot and pruning it regularly, you can maintain a compact size for many years. This is often called “bonsai-style” care.
How fast do money trees grow?
Under good conditions, a young money tree can grow 1-2 feet per year. Growth slows significantly once it reaches maturity around 6-8 feet, especially in a container.
Why is my money tree not growing taller?
The most likely causes are insufficient light, being root-bound in a too-small pot, or a need for fertilizer during the growing season. Check for pests as a secondary cause.
Do money trees like to be root bound?
They can tolerate being slightly root-bound, which can help control their size. However, severely bound roots will choke the plant and stop all growth. It’s a balance.
When should I repot to encourage growth?
Repot in the spring if you see roots growing out of the drainage holes or if the plant dries out very quickly after watering. Moving to a slightly larger pot will stimulate new growth.
Caring for a money tree indoors is a rewarding experience. By understanding the factors that influence its height, you can confidently guide its growth to fit your space perfectly. Remember, consistency is key—provide bright indirect light, water carefully, and don’t be afraid to prune. With this approach, your money tree will thrive at just the right size for your home.