Gunnera
Giant rhubarb
- Height × spread
- 0.15m – 2.8m × 1m – 2.4m
- Position
- Full sun
Availability
Please ask in store about availability
Many plants are seasonal. Call 01234 567890 to check current stock.
About this plant
There are around 50 species of these intriguing plants. They range from the giant leaves of Gunnera manicata with rhubarb-like leaves that can be 1.8 metres in diameter to a number of small, even subtle forms such as the prostrate Gunnera arenaria with leaves that are around 1 centimetre in diameter. Some forms, especially the smaller varieties have fleshy fruits, generally coloured red. They are found growing naturally in warmer parts of the world including Africa and America, even Hawaii. The larger forms are classic plants for damp or moist soil at the edge of ponds.
- Flower colour
- Brown
- Foliage colour
- Green
- Fruit colour
- Orange
- Variegated
- No
- Scent
- No
- Shape
- Dome
- Height
- 0.15m – 2.8m
- Spread
- 1m – 2.4m
- Season of interest
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Evergreen
- Deciduous
- Garden style
- Exotic garden
- Sun or shade
- Likes full sun, tolerates part shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam (normal)
- Soil pH
- All types
- Drainage
- Moisture retentive soil
- Winter hardiness
- Varies, some are not hardy
- Borders & containers
- Borders
- Use for
- Ground cover
- Hazards
- Yes, some leaves are prickly
Spring
Spring - late · Outdoors
Feed with slow release fertiliser
Apply a general purpose slow release fertiliser, spreading it around the root area of the plant as it is coming into growth. (Or apply a liquid feed at regular intervals throughout the growing season.)
This is a simple way to provide a nutrient boost as a single annual procedure.
Spring-Autumn · Outdoors
Water to keep the soil moist
For best results, this plant needs soil that is always moist. Water deeply and regularly as soon as soil appears dry. Even for established plants in the ground, a dry week can cause problems with some soils. Check plants in pots more often, especially in hot weather. Or install an automatic irrigation system which will do the hard work for you, even when you are away on holiday.
Without regular watering some plants never fully regain their beauty.
Planting & general
Planting
Winter protection required by some varieties
Some plants within this genus require protection from winter cold. It is best to look up your specific plant for guidance, and/or check the label.
Planting
Divide some varieties differently
Some plant varieties within this genus have different requirements for dividing them when they get big. It is best to look up your specific plant, or the species it belongs to for guidance, and/or check the label.