Are Money Trees (Pachira aquatica) poisonous to dogs?

No. The ASPCA lists Pachira aquatica as non-toxic to dogs, with no toxic principles. A dog that nibbles a true Money Tree is not at risk of poisoning, though eating plant material can still cause mild, temporary stomach upset.

My dog ate some Money Tree leaves - what should I watch for?

Watch for mild, short-lived nausea, vomiting, or loose stool, which can occur with any plant ingestion even from a non-toxic species. Provide fresh water and monitor. If vomiting or diarrhea is repeated, persistent, or accompanied by lethargy or loss of appetite, contact your veterinarian.

Is the toxic 'money plant' the same as the Money Tree?

Not necessarily. 'Money plant' and 'money tree' are common names shared by several unrelated species. The true Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) is non-toxic, but Jade plant (Crassula ovata) and Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) - also sold as 'money plant' - ARE toxic to dogs. Identify the plant by its scientific name before assuming it is safe.

Are Money Trees Poisonous to Dogs?

Pachira aquatica · Malvaceae

Generally SafeNot toxic to cats

Money Trees are generally safe for dogs.

“Generally safe” doesn't mean risk-free — amount, your dog's size, preparation, and individual sensitivity still matter. See the notes below.

What to keep in mind

The ASPCA classifies the Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) as non-toxic to dogs, cats, and horses, with no toxic principles. This refers specifically to Pachira aquatica, the braided-trunk houseplant. Important caveats: (1) Even though the plant contains no toxins, the ASPCA still lists nausea, vomiting, and loose stool as possible signs - any dog that eats a non-food plant can develop mild, self-limiting gastrointestinal upset from the fiber and plant material. (2) Name confusion is the main real-world risk: 'money tree,' 'money plant,' and 'lucky plant' are common names also applied to entirely different and genuinely toxic species - notably Jade plant (Crassula ovata), Pothos/Devil's Ivy (Epipremnum aureum), and Swiss cheese/Monstera. Confirm the plant is actually Pachira aquatica before assuming it is safe. (3) Soil, fertilizer, pesticides, or added decorative elements (gravel, figurines) can cause problems independent of the plant. (4) A large ingestion could pose a choking or GI-obstruction risk in small dogs. Discourage chewing and monitor for persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy; contact a vet if signs do not resolve quickly.

Frequently asked questions

Are Money Trees (Pachira aquatica) poisonous to dogs?: No. The ASPCA lists Pachira aquatica as non-toxic to dogs, with no toxic principles. A dog that nibbles a true Money Tree is not at risk of poisoning, though eating plant material can still cause mild, temporary stomach upset.
My dog ate some Money Tree leaves - what should I watch for?: Watch for mild, short-lived nausea, vomiting, or loose stool, which can occur with any plant ingestion even from a non-toxic species. Provide fresh water and monitor. If vomiting or diarrhea is repeated, persistent, or accompanied by lethargy or loss of appetite, contact your veterinarian.
Is the toxic 'money plant' the same as the Money Tree?: Not necessarily. 'Money plant' and 'money tree' are common names shared by several unrelated species. The true Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) is non-toxic, but Jade plant (Crassula ovata) and Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) - also sold as 'money plant' - ARE toxic to dogs. Identify the plant by its scientific name before assuming it is safe.

Sources

ASPCA - Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants: Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)

Last updated 2026-06-26

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This page is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Toxicity can vary with the amount eaten, your dog's size, and individual sensitivity. If you suspect poisoning, contact a veterinarian or poison-control hotline immediately.