Tetrapanax
A heavy weight champion in the world of big bold foliage from the always impressive Aralia family. Tetrapanax is a deciduous shrub that grows in almost a palm like fashion without branching, though the petioles are so large that they almost look like branches. A very good plant if you want a tropical look in relatively cold climates, though do beware that it spreads by underground runners so give it room or give it some barriers. Apparently the pith is used to make a paper giving it a common name of rice paper plant, though we’ve never tried it.
Latin Name: Tetrapanax papyrifer ‘Rex’
Site and Soil: Well draining unamended soils in full all day sun
Hardiness: Hardy to about 10 F.
Size at Maturity: 6′ – 8′ or so and clumping
Pests & Diseases: None that we have observed
USDA Zone: 8