Giant Rice Paper Plant
Tetrapanax papyrifer 'Steroidal Giant'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
180 inches
Width
180 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
7, 8, 9
Water
Consistent moisture
Humidity
High humidity preferred
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Taiwan, China
Toxicity
Hairs on leaves and stems can be an irritant
The Story
Plant Bio
Tetrapanax papyrifer, commonly known as Rice Paper Plant, is a large, deciduous shrub or small tree distinguished by its massive, palmate, deeply lobed leaves and erect clusters of cream-colored flowers. The 'Steroidal Giant' cultivar is notable for its exceptionally large foliage and vigorous growth, making it an impressive focal point in large-scale gardens or landscape settings.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds in moist soil in early spring
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy
- Transplant young plants after last frost for best growth
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Provide shelter from strong winds to protect large leaves
- Divide root clumps every 3-4 years to manage size
Pro Tip
Plant in rich, moist soil with shelter from wind for optimal growth
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature
- Prune dead or damaged leaves to maintain health
- Fertilize with balanced fertilizer in early spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not expose to frost; protect or bring indoors in winter
- Refrain from planting in poorly drained soil
- Don’t prune excessively during growing season
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Giant Rice Paper Plant questions
What zones can Giant Rice Paper Plant grow in?
Giant Rice Paper Plant is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Giant Rice Paper Plant deer resistant?
Yes — Giant Rice Paper Plant is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Giant Rice Paper Plant bloom?
Giant Rice Paper Plant typically blooms in fall through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Giant Rice Paper Plant need full sun?
Giant Rice Paper Plant does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Tetrapanax to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Giant Rice Paper Plant with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
