SafePlants

No images found for this plant ID: 20577.

Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "20577" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.

Safe for Children?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

Safe for Dogs?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

Safe for Cats?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

Safe for Reptiles?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

giant rhubarb

Scientific Name: Gunnera manicata

Family: Gunneraceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Gunnera manicata: The Brazilian Giant-Rhubarb

Gunnera manicata, also known as Brazilian giant-rhubarb or giant rhubarb, is a truly spectacular plant renowned for its massive leaves and architectural presence. It's a favorite in gardens, particularly near ponds and in damp areas, but it's important to be aware of its potential invasiveness.

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant has rhubarb-like prickly leaves.

Considerations for Children

  • The plant has rhubarb-like prickly leaves.
  • Next year's young shoots are pinkish-red and tangled, which may be attractive to children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Gunnera manicata
  • Common Names: Brazilian giant-rhubarb, giant rhubarb, Chilean rhubarb, prickly rhubarb, Dinosaur Food
  • Genus: Gunnera
  • Species: manicata
  • Family: Gunneraceae
  • Synonym: Gunnera brasiliensis
  • Misidentifications: Gunnera chilensis and Panke tinctoria have been listed as synonyms, but might be other species.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to South America, ranging from Colombia to Brazil.
  • Introduced to the UK and Ireland as an ornamental plant.
  • Now naturalized in scattered locations, including the west of Ireland.
  • Often found near ponds and in damp, boggy areas.

Ecological Role

  • Considered an invasive, non-native plant in some regions, including Ireland and the Isle of Harris.
  • Forms thickets.
  • Its robust growth and large leaves can outcompete native vegetation.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Herbaceous perennial.
  • Deciduous or semi-evergreen foliage.
  • Fast-growing and clump-forming.
  • Can grow up to 2 meters in height and 4 meters in width.
  • Leaves can reach impressive sizes, with a typical leaf span of around 7 feet (approximately 2.1 meters), and potentially up to 11 feet (3.4 meters).
  • Requires a lot of space.
  • Prefers full sun to part shade.
  • Requires constantly moist, boggy soil and high humidity.

Quirky Facts

  • The plant is sometimes referred to as "Dinosaur Food" because of its massive leaves and prehistoric appearance.

Further Information

  • RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) provides help and information on Gunnera manicata and Gunnera tinctoria.
  • Dave's Garden offers tips and ideas for growing Gunnera manicata.