Pachira aquatica

Natural range and habitat of Pachira aquatica

Pachira aquatica occurs naturally from Mexico through Central America into tropical South America. It grows naturally in wet tropical lowlands, including freshwater wetlands, river margins and periodically flooded forest.

In the wild, it can grow into a large tree in these wet lowland habitats.

Indoor care for Pachira aquatica

• Light: Give it bright light or partial shade, with protection from intense direct sun through hot glass.
• Temperature: Keep it warm and stable, ideally above 15°C, away from cold draughts and sudden temperature changes.
• Water: Wait until the top layer of mix has dried, then water thoroughly until the whole mix is evenly moist and let excess water drain. Keep water directed to the mix around the roots.
• Humidity: Moderate to high humidity helps keep the leaves in good condition. Keep the plant away from strong drying heat sources.
• Growing mix: Use an open houseplant mix that drains well and still holds some moisture.
• Feeding: Feed lightly while new leaves and shoots are growing.
• Pruning: Shorten long shoots while the plant is growing to control height and help the plant branch evenly.
• Repotting: Repot when the roots are crowded, the crown becomes unstable or the old mix stays wet for an unusually long time.

Common health problems in Pachira aquatica

• Yellow leaves with a soft or rotting stem base: The mix around the roots has stayed too wet, water has collected around the stem, or the mix holds moisture for too long. Wait until the top layer of mix has dried, inspect the roots and stem, and repot into fresh mix that drains well if soft tissue is present.
• Leaves drop soon after a move: A sudden change in position, temperature or disturbing the roots can cause leaf drop. Keep the plant in stable bright conditions and allow new buds time to develop.
• Leaves wilt or turn dry at the edges while the pot feels very light: The growing mix has dried too far. Rehydrate it thoroughly, then check the mix before watering again.
• Fine webbing, shell-like bumps or clusters of small insects: Spider mites, scale or aphids may be present. Isolate the plant and identify the pest first. If you need to treat it, pick an ornamental-plant product that covers the identified pest; let the label guide both the amount and the timing of any repeat treatment.
• Dark leaf spots that continue to expand: Leaf-spot disease is possible. Remove badly affected leaves with clean tools, improve air movement and keep water on the growing mix.

Pachira aquatica is non-toxic to cats and dogs

• This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs.
• Its effects on people are unclear, so keep it away from young children who may chew it.
• Eating a large amount can still cause an upset stomach. Seek medical or veterinary advice if symptoms continue.

About the name Pachira aquatica

Pachira preserves a plant name used in the Guianas. The epithet aquatica means aquatic or growing by water.

Jean Baptiste Christophore Fusée Aublet established the genus Pachira in 1775 in Histoire des Plantes de la Guiane Françoise, page 725.

Jean Baptiste Christophore Fusée Aublet first described Pachira aquatica in 1775 in Histoire des Plantes de la Guiane Françoise, page 726.