Rice-Paper Plant

(Tetrapanax papyrifer)

Rice-Paper Plant (Tetrapanax papyrifer)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Tetrapanax papyrifer, commonly known as Rice-Paper Plant, is an evergreen shrub native to the understory of moist forests and shaded stream banks in Taiwan and multiple regions in China. It typically grows to a height of 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters) and a width of 5-8 feet (1.5-2.4 meters). The Rice-Paper Plant has large, lobed leaves that can reach up to 2 feet in diameter, giving it a tropical appearance. It produces small, white flowers in large, terminal panicles, which are followed by black berries. The flowers bloom in late fall to winter and are moderately showy.

The Rice-Paper Plant is valued for its bold, architectural foliage and is used in cultivation for tropical-themed gardens, as a specimen plant, or for creating a dense screen. It prefers partial shade to full sun, moist but well-drained soil, and can tolerate a range of soil types. While it is relatively low maintenance, it may require protection from strong winds due to its large leaves. In some regions, it can spread aggressively by suckers, and its potential invasiveness should be considered before planting. It is also susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
  • Height: 10-15 feet
  • Width: 5-8 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Cream, White
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Potted Plant, Salt Tolerant

Natural Habitat

native to the understory of moist forests and shaded stream banks in Taiwan and multiple regions in China

Other Names

Common Names: Chinese Rice-Paper Plant, Chinese Rice-Paper-Plant, Rice-Paper-Plant, Reispapierbaum, Aralia, Aralie À Papier, Rispappersbuske, Ricepaper Plant, Tong Tuo Mu

Scientific Names: , Tetrapanax papyrifer, Tetrapanax papyriferus, Aralia papyrifera, Fatsia papyrifera, Aralia mairei, Didymopanax papyrifer, Didymopanax papyriferus, Echinopanax papyrifer, Echinopanax papyriferus

GBIF Accepted Name: Tetrapanax papyrifer (Hook.) K.Koch