Money Tree vs Lucky Bamboo

Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)
Money Tree
Pachira aquatica
Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
Lucky Bamboo
Dracaena sanderiana

Choosing between the Money Tree and the Lucky Bamboo? Both are popular houseplants, but they differ in care effort, light needs, and pet safety. Here is a clear side-by-side comparison to help you decide.

📊Side by side

FeatureMoney TreeLucky Bamboo
WateringEvery 7–10 daysEvery 7 days
LightBright indirectMedium, bright indirect
DifficultyEasyEasy
HumidityAverageAverage
Mature size90–200 cm (35–79 in)30–100 cm (12–39 in)
Growth rateModerateSlow
Pet safetyPet-safeToxic to pets
Care effortMediumMedium

🏆Which one should you choose?

Both are rated Easy, so neither will give you much trouble — decide on looks and the space you have.

If you have cats or dogs, the Money Tree is the safer choice — it is non-toxic, while the Lucky Bamboo is toxic to pets.

The Money Tree grows clearly larger (90–200 cm) than the Lucky Bamboo (30–100 cm) — choose by the space you have.

Their light needs are similar (Bright indirect), so the same spot suits both.

Choose the Money Tree if…

  • Non-toxic to cats and dogs
  • Hard to kill; great for beginners
  • Big, room-defining presence

Choose the Lucky Bamboo if…

  • Tolerates low light
  • Hard to kill; great for beginners

Frequently asked questions

Which is easier to care for: Money Tree or Lucky Bamboo?

Both are rated Easy, so neither will give you much trouble — decide on looks and the space you have.

Is the Money Tree or the Lucky Bamboo better for homes with pets?

If you have cats or dogs, the Money Tree is the safer choice — it is non-toxic, while the Lucky Bamboo is toxic to pets.

Can I care for the Money Tree and the Lucky Bamboo the same way?

Not quite — the Money Tree wants water about every 10 days in Bright indirect, while the Lucky Bamboo prefers every 7 days in Medium, bright indirect. Treat them as two routines.

← All comparisons

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