Is it toxic to dogs?
Money tree
Pachira aquatica · Malvaceae
Also called Money plant, Braided money tree
Non-Toxic to dogs
No. ASPCA lists money tree (Pachira aquatica) as non-toxic to dogs, though its entry lists nausea, vomiting and loose stool as possible signs if it is eaten. Jade plant, also sold as a money tree, is toxic.
Why it’s considered safe for dogs
The money tree, Pachira aquatica, is the houseplant with a braided trunk and a tuft of glossy, hand-shaped leaves. ASPCA lists it as non-toxic to dogs and names no toxic principle. Its entry still lists nausea, vomiting and loose stool as signs, which is a good reminder that "non-toxic" is not the same as "safe to eat".
The tricky part is the name. "Money tree" and "money plant" are used for several unrelated plants. Jade plant (Crassula ovata, listed by ASPCA as Crassula argentea) is sold as a lucky or money plant, and ASPCA lists it as toxic to dogs, with vomiting, depression and incoordination as signs. Its toxin is unknown. An ASPCA houseplant article describes most exposures as mild vomiting or diarrhea.
So the label matters more than the nickname. Pachira is usually sold with a braided trunk topped with palm-like clusters of leaves, while jade has thick, fleshy, oval leaves. Check the Latin name before you decide where to put it.
If your dog ate money tree
A few chewed leaves usually mean a brief stomach upset at most. ASPCA lists the money tree as non-toxic but names nausea, vomiting and loose stool as possible signs, so some vomiting or diarrhea can happen.
Call your vet if the signs persist, your dog ate a lot, or the plant was treated with fertilizer or a pesticide. Also call if there is any chance the plant is a jade plant instead. In the US, ASPCA Animal Poison Control is at (888) 426-4435 and Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (fees may apply); elsewhere, call your local emergency vet.
Do not make your dog vomit at home. Take a photo of the plant and its tag to the vet.
Keeping your dog safe
Money trees get tall and top-heavy, so anchor the pot where a swishing tail or a bounding dog will not tip it. A table or stand keeps the lower leaves out of reach.
Store plant food, fertilizer and sprays in a closed cabinet, and avoid treating plants your dog can reach. Pet Poison Helpline notes that fertilizers can include pesticides and other chemicals.
Keep the tag from the garden center. Other houseplants ASPCA lists as non-toxic include peperomia and ponytail palm.
Frequently asked questions
Is a money tree toxic to dogs?
ASPCA lists Pachira aquatica as non-toxic to dogs but notes nausea, vomiting and loose stool. Call your vet if the signs last or your dog ate a lot.
Is jade plant a money tree?
Jade plant is often sold under the names lucky plant or money plant, and ASPCA lists it as toxic to dogs. Check the Latin name: Pachira aquatica is the braided money tree.
Why does ASPCA list signs for a non-toxic plant?
ASPCA does not explain it, but eating a plant that is not part of a dog's diet can upset the stomach even when the plant is not poisonous, and the signs it lists are that kind of mild upset.
What if my plant turns out to be a jade plant?
ASPCA lists jade plant as toxic to dogs, with vomiting, depression and incoordination as signs. Call your vet or a poison hotline if your dog ate any, and bring the plant or a photo.
Written from veterinary sources by the Pawsplained editorial team. Not yet reviewed by a veterinarian; this is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Updated Oct 30, 2026. Editorial policy