Tetrapanax papyrifer

rice-paper plant
Bold, beautiful, upright evergreen shrub with showy big leaves atop clean stems grows fast and eventually forms clumps. Showy, cream-colored flowers on occasion.
Tetrapanax papyriferTetrapanax papyriferTetrapanax papyrifer
height 8–15ft
width 3–6ft
tolerates Cold
water
needs		 Moderate
water
info		 A deep watering every week or two will serve it well, especially in the first two or three years after planting. In cool coastal areas in heavier soil it can tolerate some drought after the establishment phase. In warmer areas, plan to irrigate regularly through the dry season.
hardy
to		 16F
exposure Full Shade – Full Sun
indoor
outdoor		 Outdoor
drainage In Ground: Planting Mix, In Pots: Potting Soil, Tolerates Heavy Soil, Tolerates Sandy Soil
fertilizing All Purpose
origin China
california
native		 No
sunset
zones		 4–10, 14–H2

Sunset Zones Map

Outdoor Exposure Guide

Growing Notes

Easy to grow. Good drainage is best, but this plant will tolerate a range of soil conditions. Avoid blustery locations as the large leaves may get tattered.
Watch for aggressive underground runners sending up new shoots many feet from the mother plant, especially in moist, rich soils.
In areas where freezing weather kills the stems, it will bounce back in spring as a worthy foliage perennial.

Special Interest

One of the best foliage shrubs for a tropical effect, especially in colder zones where temperatures dip below 20F. Two-tone leaves with creamy taupe below and olive green above are a pleasing combo.

More Info

Our friends at Cistus Nursery in Portland, Oregon, introduced a variety that blew our minds called ‘Steroidal Giant’ with especially large leaves and a deciduous habit (at least up in the Pacific Northwest).