GUNNERA

Commonly known as Chile rhubarb, Giant prickly rhubarb

Generally extremely large plants excellent as architectural specimens, particularly near water.

Can become invasive.

Genus of about 45 species of summer-flowering, rhizomatous, herbaceous or evergreen perennials from moist areas in southern Africa, Australasia and South America.

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Plant Details

Good to know
Invasive. Should never be allowed to escape into the wild.
Pests & Diseases
Slugs, snails.
Place of origin
Colombia to Brazil
Green
Tiny greenish red flowers
Panicles
Conical, branched panicles to 1m (39in) tall
Fully hardy
Height
2.5m (8ft)
Spread
3-4m (10-13ft) or more.
Herbaceous
Early in the year, typically January till end of March, herbaceous plants might be supplied in 9cm pots to ensure timely despatch.

Very large clump forming perennial. Rounded to kidney-shaped, palmately-lobed, sharply-toothed, dark-green leaves to 2m (6ft) long on prickly stalks to 2.5m (8ft) long. Flowers are followed by small, spherical, red-green fruit.
Hardy - cold winter
Hardy in most places throughout the UK even in severe winters. May not withstand open/exposed sites or central/northern locations. Plant can withstand temperatures down to -15°C (5°F)
Autumn Seasonal Interest
Spring Seasonal Interest
Summer Seasonal Interest

Mature Size

2.5m (8ft)
	3-4m (10-13ft) or more.

Planting Tips and Care Advice

Garden Location/Conditions

Bog garden
Soil Conditions

Wet or boggy soil

or deep, permanently moist, humus-rich soil.
Sun Requirements

Full sun

shelter from cold drying winds. Protect crowns in frost prone areas.

Partial shade