Tetrapanax papyrifer ‘Rex’ – Giant-Leaved Rice Paper Plant for Dramatic Impact
Tetrapanax papyrifer ‘Rex’ is a spectacular architectural plant, prized for producing some of the largest leaves of any hardy garden plant. Its huge, deeply lobed foliage creates an immediate tropical effect, bringing bold texture and scale to the garden.
The leaves can reach impressive sizes, forming a dense, umbrella-like canopy that adds drama and presence, particularly in exotic or jungle-style planting schemes. Compared to the species, ‘Rex’ is selected for its especially large foliage and strong growth.
As it matures, it develops a spreading, clump-forming habit, often sending up new shoots from the base to create a layered, natural look. In late summer to autumn, mature plants may produce tall flower spikes topped with creamy-white blooms, adding further architectural interest.
Fast growing and vigorous, it is ideal for quickly filling space and creating a focal point. It performs particularly well at the back of borders or as a standalone feature.
Thriving in a sheltered position, it prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soil and benefits from protection against strong winds, which can damage its large leaves. In colder winters, the top growth may die back, but it reliably regrows from the base in spring.
Striking, bold, and unforgettable, Tetrapanax ‘Rex’ is an outstanding choice for creating a lush, dramatic garden with real impact.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring: Large new leaves emerge rapidly.
Summer: Huge foliage creates a tropical canopy.
Autumn: Creamy-white flower spikes on mature plants.
Winter: Dies back in colder conditions, regrowing in spring.
Key Features
Giant foliage – Extremely large, deeply lobed leaves.
Architectural impact – Strong tropical presence.
Fast growing – Quickly fills space.
Spreading habit – Forms a clump over time.
Low maintenance – Regrows reliably each year.
Perfect For
Architectural planting – Bold focal point.
Exotic gardens – Jungle-style schemes.
Borders – Back-of-border impact.
Large gardens – Space-filling presence.
Sheltered areas – Maximises leaf size.
Growing Tips
Sun/Position: Sun or partial shade; sheltered from wind.
Soil: Moist, fertile, well-drained soil preferred.
Hardiness: Hardy in the UK; top growth may die back in winter.
Care: Remove unwanted suckers to control spread if needed.
Looks Great With
Bananas (Musa) – Enhances tropical feel.
Fatsia – Bold foliage pairing.
Bamboo – Adds height and structure.
Ferns – Softens planting.
Grasses – Adds movement and contrast.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
