Tetrapanax papyrifer 'Rex'

Common Name:
Rice Paper Plant 'Rex'

Description:
Tetrapanax papyrifer 'Rex', known as the Rice Paper Plant 'Rex', is a bold and dramatic architectural plant prized for its enormous, deeply lobed foliage that brings a lush, tropical feel to temperate gardens. The 'Rex' cultivar is particularly sought after for its gigantic leaves, which can reach up to 90 cm across, covered in a fine silvery down on the underside. Native to Taiwan, it is a fast-growing, deciduous shrub or small tree that thrives in Melbourne’s climate when given protection from frost and hot winds. It prefers part shade but can tolerate full sun if kept moist and sheltered. In late autumn, mature plants produce tall spikes of creamy-white flowers that add further textural interest and are attractive to pollinators. While non-invasive in cooler climates like Melbourne, it can produce suckers and may spread if left unchecked. Tetrapanax 'Rex' is ideal for creating a jungle-style garden or as a standout feature plant in subtropical-themed beds.

Form:
Shrub - Large
Shrub - Clumping / Grass-like / Mounding

Mature Size:
Height: 3 – 5 m
Width: 2 – 4 m

Aspect:
Part Shade
Full Sun (with protection)

Flowering:
Flowers in Autumn

Flower Colour:
Creamy White

Key Attributes:
Perennial
Bee Attracting
Suitable for Tropical Gardens
Architectural Foliage
Fast Growing
Low Maintenance (once established)

Toxicity:
No confirmed toxicity to humans or animals, but the fine hairs on leaves and stems may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals

Companion Plants:
Colocasia esculenta
Fatsia japonica
Hedychium gardnerianum (Kahili Ginger)
Musa basjoo (Hardy Banana)
Hosta spp.

For more information and photos of this species, Warners Nursery has detailed information available to the public here