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PlantSnap
Plant Care
Rice-paper plant
(Tetrapanax papyrifer)
Also Known As
Rice-paper plant, Rice paper plant, Paper bush, Giant rice paper plant
About This Plant
Tetrapanax papyrifer is a large, fast-growing evergreen shrub or small tree that can reach up to 30 feet (9.1 meters) tall. It has large, lobed leaves that can grow up to 3 feet (91.4 cm) wide and are covered in a white, papery substance. The plant produces small, white flowers in the summer, followed by small, black berries in the fall.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
10-30 feet (3-9.1 meters)
Light Requirements
Tetrapanax papyrifer prefers partial to full shade, but can tolerate some direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Humidity Needs
Tetrapanax papyrifer prefers high humidity, but can tolerate average indoor humidity levels. Mist the leaves regularly or place a humidifier nearby to increase humidity levels.
Fertilizing Schedule
Fertilize Tetrapanax papyrifer once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Pruning Guidelines
Prune Tetrapanax papyrifer in early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. You can also prune to control the size and shape of the plant.
Common Pests and Diseases
Tetrapanax papyrifer is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but can occasionally be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs.
Indoor Size Range
Not suitable for indoor growth
Watering Schedule
Tetrapanax papyrifer prefers consistently moist soil, but can tolerate some drought. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently in hot, dry weather.
Temperature Range
Tetrapanax papyrifer prefers warm temperatures between 60-75°F (15.6-23.9°C), but can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6.7°C).
Growing Season
Tetrapanax papyrifer can be grown year-round in USDA hardiness zones 8-10. In colder climates, it can be grown as an annual or overwintered indoors.
Growing Difficulty Level
Tetrapanax papyrifer is easy to grow as long as it is given the right conditions, such as partial to full shade, consistently moist soil, and high humidity levels.
USDA Hardiness Zones
USDA hardiness zones 8-10
Did You Know?
The white, papery substance on the leaves of Tetrapanax papyrifer was traditionally used in Asia to make rice paper, hence its common name, 'Rice paper plant'.
