Gunnera manicata (Giant Rhubarb)

A very architectural plant, Gunnera manicata (Giant Rhubarb) is a large, herbaceous clump-forming perennial grown primarily for its gigantic, round to kidney-shaped, deep green leaves, up to 6 ft. across (180 cm). The leaves are palmately lobed, prominently veined, and sharply toothed and sit atop prickly stalks that extend to 10 ft. tall (3 m). In summer, Giant Rhubarb produces large, conical panicles of tiny reddish-green florets, up to 3-6 ft. high (90-180 cm). Gunnera manicata’s large size and distinctive leaves make it attractive to gardeners, and it is widely planted for ornamental reasons. A dramatic accent plant for wet areas of the landscape. Give it lots of space.

• Grows up to 6-10 ft. high (180-300 cm) and 8-14 ft. wide (240-420 cm).
• Performs best in permanently moist, humus-rich soil in full sun or partial shade. Shelter from cold drying winds. Protect crowns by mulching during the winter months. Appreciates part shade in hot summer climates. Tolerant of salt spray and is often grown near permanent water sources in areas with low rainfall.
• Easy to grow, Giant Rhubarb is a welcomed addition to city gardens, cottage gardens, bog gardens or rain gardens.
• Propagate by seed sown in gentle heat as soon as ripe, seed quickly loses viability. Propagate by cuttings of leafy, basal buds in spring.
• Remove damaged or dead leaves as they appear. Cut back after flowering.
• Virtually disease and pest free. Keep an eye out for slugs and scale.
• Native to Brazil.
• This plant is listed on Schedule 3 of the EU (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 in the Republic of Ireland as an invasive non-native species.