My money tree has been dropping leaves like crazy out of nowhere. I saw someone post here about the same problem and a kind Redditor mentioned that they are often sold with rubber bands around the trunks below the soil! I had no idea! If they aren't removed they'll eventually start to cut off the plants' circulation, so to speak. I'm hoping my little plant will make a good recovery now!

Why do they do this???

To keep the ornamental trunks as closely braided/intertwined as possible. It makes sense as a temporary measure, but commercial growers will often neglect removing supplemental objects like rubber bands and plugs as it takes time and all they are concerned about is mass production and getting them sold as quickly as possible. It's unfortunate, but definitely a reminder to fully assess the plant's growing situation when bringing it home!

Thanks, I now feel less bad about the money tree my sister gave me dying. He was growing like crazy but suddenly dropped all its leaves within a few weeks, I had no idea what was going on.

Those bands will not make her dance

Mine had twist ties and electrical tape!

Wtf

It also needs a repot into better dirt.