Tetrapanax papyrifer ‘Rex’ (2-Litre Pot)

Tetrapanax papyrifer ‘Rex’, also known as the Chinese Rice Paper Plant, is a bold, eye-catching shrub, or small tree, that is sure to add a touch of exotic flair to your garden.

Native to Taiwan, this variety is known for its massive, palmately lobed leaves, which can grow up to 1m / 3 feet wide. The leaves are a deep green colour with serrated margins, and they are held on sturdy stems that can reach around 5 meters tall when mature.

In addition to its striking foliage, Tetrapanax papyrifer ‘Rex’ is also a relatively low-maintenance plant. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is also tolerant of a wide range of temperatures, making it a good choice for indoor or outdoor cultivation. Remove leaves as and when they appear faded and prune back to size in autumn. Protect from cold winds and provide a deep mulch over winter in cold areas.

If you are able to keep it frost-free then the foliage will be evergreen. With mild frost the plant will become deciduous and in colder areas it may die back to ground level then reshoot from the roots.

Details

• A Tetrapanax papyrifer ‘Rex’ in a 2 litre pot
• Flower colour: Cream
• Foliage colour: Green
• Fruit colour: Black
• Sunlight: Full sun
• Aspect: West-facing, South-facing
• Soil drainage: Well drained
• Soil pH: Acid, Neutral, Alkaline
• Hardiness: Hardy through most of the UK (-5 to -10)
• Flowering period: September, October
• Plant height (mature): up to 5m
• Features: Semi-evergreen
• Measurements are approximate