The Money Tree: 2026 Plant of the Year
Representing steadiness, optimism, and growth the money tree acts as a symbol of cultivate in many peoples lives.
Dec 08, 2025
Some plants feel perfectly suited to the moment we're living through. As people navigate uncertainty, seek calmer spaces, and reconnect with rituals that ground them, the Money Tree has emerged as a symbol of what many are hoping to cultivate in their lives: steadiness, optimism, and growth. That resonance is one of the reasons our plant experts kept returning to it when thinking about the year ahead and 1-800-Flowers.com's Plant of the Year.
"The Money Tree represents hope, positive energy, and the belief that good things are growing," says Kevin Cochran, VP of Procurement for 1-800-Flowers.com. "As we look toward 2026, people are craving grounding, abundance, and a sense of control over their own wellbeing."
The timing feels right. After several years marked by economic swings and unrest, more people are turning toward objects that bring emotional comfort along with beauty. "It aligns beautifully with the rising desire for meaningful, wellness-oriented décor," Cochran explains. "It's a plant that feels both hopeful and intentional, making it the perfect ambassador for the year ahead."
Money Tree: Symbolism, roots, and meaning
The Money Tree, with its distinctive braided trunk and lush canopy, has deep roots in East Asian cultural traditions as a symbol of luck, prosperity, and harmony. In feng shui, it's believed to attract positive energy, while its five-lobed leaves represent the five elements of balance. The braided trunk design showcases how individual strength becomes more powerful when woven together.
Cochran echoes this symbolism. "Each trunk strand grows individually, but when woven together, they form something stronger, more stable, and more beautiful than any single stem could be alone. To me, that braid symbolizes community, teamwork, and the power of connected effort."
This message resonates today as people seek grounding and clarity. becomes a gentle practice that encourages patience, mindfulness, and a sense of steady abundance.
"I hope customers feel that they're welcoming growth into their lives," Cochran adds. "A Money Tree carries an invitation: 'Nurture me and let abundance; emotional, personal, or financial, grow with me.'"
A modern design icon
The Money Tree's emotional resonance is matched by its modern aesthetic. It appeals to consumers seeking living plants they can care for and watch grow over time. Its sculptural form and vibrant green foliage make it suitable for a range of interior design styles, aligning naturally with the biophilic design movement that prioritizes bringing nature indoors.
"The lush canopy adds life to minimalist spaces, while the braided trunk gives it that sculptural look people love," Cochran says. Guests notice it immediately: "The braided trunk always sparks curiosity. It looks hand-crafted, almost like living art — the kind of plant people naturally ask about."
Approachable, pet-friendly, and easy to care for
Beyond symbolism, the Money Tree is beloved for its simplicity and approachability. It thrives in bright, indirect light, requires watering only when the soil dries, and prefers temperatures between 60–75°F. It's also safe for pets and children because it is non-toxic.
"A Money Tree is an easy-to-care-for potted plant," Cochran says.
Behind every Money Tree delivered by 1-800-Flowers.com is the work of expert growers. "We work with trusted growers who specialize in Money Trees," Cochran explains. "They braid the trunks early and nurture the plants to ensure healthy, full canopies before they reach customers."
He also offers helpful insight for plant lovers:
- Growth: "Outdoors it can grow over 50 feet, but indoors it typically reaches 3 to 6 feet."
- Care: "Use well-draining soil, avoid overwatering, and fertilize monthly in spring and summer."
- Repotting: "Repot once the plant becomes root-bound — when roots begin replacing the soil."
- Propagation: "Take a stem cutting, place it in water or soil, and let roots develop.
A gift with deep, lasting meaning
The Money Tree is not only a plant but a message. With its symbolism of growth and good fortune, it's ideal for housewarmings, new jobs, graduations, new beginnings, sympathy, and New Year celebrations. "It's a gift that carries a heartfelt wish: 'I'm wishing you good things in your life,'" Cochran says.
Cochran adds, "People are drawn to gifting good fortune because it's a hopeful gesture. A Money Tree says what words often can't: 'I want good things for you, now and in the future.'"
symbol for the year ahead
Throughout 2026, 1-800-Flowers.com will feature Money Trees and delphinium across core and limited-edition seasonal collections, home styling content, and wellness-inspired gifting programs.
Many see the Money Tree's rising popularity as part of a broader cultural return to mindfulness and nature. Cochran agrees: "People want their homes to feel peaceful and intentional. The Money Tree satisfies both needs; it symbolizes abundance while reminding us to slow down."
If the Money Tree had a personality, Cochran describes it as "calm, resilient, and quietly confident, the kind of energy many people aspire to."
Another grower echoed the sentiment: "It's a plant that lifts the energy of a room without asking much in return."
AUTHOR
Bridget Hogue Costello is a seasoned experience strategist and brand leader, currently serving as head of experiences at 1-800-Flowers.com. She brings a people-first approach to customer engagement, blending creativity with operational excellence.