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Description
Tetrapanax Papyrifer, also known as the rice-paper plant, is a species of flowering plant in the Araliaceae family. It is native to Taiwan and eastern Asia, where it grows as an understory plant in forests and along streams. The plant has a unique look with large, deeply lobed leaves that grow up to 3 feet (1 meter) in diameter. The stem of Tetrapanax Papyrifer has a papery texture that can be used to make a traditional Chinese paper called “rice paper.” The plant is easy to grow and is commonly used in gardens as an ornamental plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Tetrapanax |
Appearance
Tetrapanax Papyrifer is a large, fast-growing shrub that can reach up to 20 feet (6 meters) tall. The plant has large, deeply lobed leaves that grow up to 3 feet (1 meter) in diameter. The leaves are bright green and have a glossy surface. The stem of the plant has a papery texture that can be peeled off and used to make rice paper. The flowers of Tetrapanax Papyrifer are small and white and grow in large clusters. The plant blooms in late summer to early fall, and the flowers are followed by small, round fruits that turn black when ripe.
Care Guide
Tetrapanax Papyrifer is an easy plant to grow and care for. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers consistently moist soil, so water it regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tetrapanax Papyrifer is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be prone to spider mites and mealybugs, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also suffer from root rot if the soil is too wet, so make sure to provide good drainage.
Habitat
Tetrapanax Papyrifer is native to Taiwan and eastern Asia, where it grows as an understory plant in forests and along streams. The plant prefers moist, shady habitats and can tolerate a range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Tetrapanax Papyrifer be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect light and consistent moisture.
Q: Is Tetrapanax Papyrifer poisonous?
A: No, the plant is not poisonous to humans or pets.
Q: How often should I fertilize Tetrapanax Papyrifer?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer.
Q: How do I propagate Tetrapanax Papyrifer?
A: The plant can be propagated by stem cuttings taken in the summer or by division in the spring.
Related Plants
- Tetrapanax papyrifer var. Stereospermum
- Tetrapanax papyrifer var. Rex
- Tetrapanax papyrifer var. Latifolius
References
- “Tetrapanax papyrifer.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287924
- “Tetrapanax papyrifer.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/22564/Tetrapanax-papyrifer/Details
- “Tetrapanax papyrifer.” Plant Care Today. https://plantcaretoday.com/tetrapanax-papyrifer.html
