Tetrapanax papyrifer aka Chinese Rice Paper Plant

Taxonomy

Genus Tetrapanax Family Araliaceae Order Apiales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Tetrapanax papyrifer, commonly known as the rice-paper plant or Tong Cao, is a fast-growing evergreen shrub in the family Araliaceae. It is the only species in the genus Tetrapanax and is endemic to Taiwan, although it is widely cultivated in East Asia and other tropical regions. The specific epithet is often misspelled as "papyriferum", "papyriferus", or "papyrifera". Previously, it was classified under the genus Fatsia as Fatsia papyrifera. This large shrub or small tree can reach heights of about 5m, forming a thicket of upright stems. Its striking leaves are deeply lobed and can grow up to 1m in diameter. The new shoots and leaves are covered in fine, pale brown hairs. In autumn, it produces creamy pompoms of flowers in large sprays, which are followed by black fruit. The rice-paper plant is commonly used as an ornamental shrub in Asia and is frost sensitive above USDA plant zone 8b. However, it will regrow in spring. The smaller cultivar 'Rex' is suitable for container gardening.

Common names

Chinese Rice Paper Plant, Rice Paper Plant

How to care for Chinese Rice Paper Plant

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, Chinese Rice Paper Plant is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

Chinese Rice Paper Plant should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Chinese Rice Paper Plant loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Chinese Rice Paper Plant prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

Growth-pattern

Chinese Rice Paper Plant grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

Region of origin

Chinese Rice Paper Plant’s native range is E. Asia - China, Taiwan.

More info:
Wikipedia

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