Money tree plant The Malabar chestnut (Pachira aquatica), also known as the money tree plant, is considered to be a symbol of good luck and prosperity. Usually grown indoors, they are hardy outdoors in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9b to 11. In the wild, the plants can reach 60 feet tall, but are usually confined to 6 or 7 feet indoors. Tree size is largely determined by its age and pot size. The tree usually has five trunks, braided together. Braiding contains the tree's sprawl and symbolizes locking in the luck or money.