Gunnera maculata (Chilean Rhubarb)

Botanical Information

FamilyGunneraceae
GenusGunnera
Speciesmaculata
CategoryPerennials, Tropicals
OriginBrazil.
Ethnobotanical Uses
Disclaimer		Stems can be peeled and then boiled or cooked down, similar to that of the common variety of rhubarb. The roots can also be boiled down and used as black dyes.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone7b - 8a
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone8 - 10
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH5
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-15
Temperature (°F)-5
Height1.5 - 2.5 m
Spread2.5 - 4 m
GrowthMedium
Flowering PeriodApril, May

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionA robust perennial that can range in size from small and crawling to large leaves and stems covering a large surface area.
ShapeClumping.
LandscapeGround cover, in urban & city gardens or cultivation for consumption.
PropagationBy seed or division.
CultivationGrow in permanently moist, humus rich clay or loam of any acidity. Place under full sun to partial shade. Needs to be protected from harsh cold winds.
Notable SpecimensPalma Sola Botanical Park, Bradenton, Florida, United States of America.
HabitatMoist partially shady forest floors or river shores.
Bark/Stem DescriptionSmooth woody stems that can reach up to 2.5 m in height.
Leaf DescriptionBroad-rounded terminal leaves that contain 5 - 8 leaflets.
Flower DescriptionTiny flowers growing up erect panicles that reach 1 - 2 m in height.
Colour DescriptionLush green leaves, green to red-green stems and reddish-brown flowers.
Texture DescriptionSmooth.

Photographs