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Chilean gunnera

Scientific Name: Gunnera tinctoria

Family: Gunneraceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Gunnera tinctoria: Giant-Rhubarb or Chilean Rhubarb

Gunnera tinctoria, commonly known as giant-rhubarb or Chilean rhubarb, is a striking plant known for its immense size and architectural presence. This perennial adds a dramatic, almost prehistoric, feel to gardens.

Considerations for Pets and Children

  • Gunnera tinctoria has spiny flower stalks, and Gunnera manicata has leaves with spiny undersides and stems.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Gunnera tinctoria Molina Mirbel
  • Family: Gunneraceae
  • Synonyms: Gunnera chilensis, G. scabra, Panke tinctoria Molina
  • Common Names: Giant-rhubarb, Chilean rhubarb, Chilean gunnera, Dinosaur food, Giant Gunnera, Prickly Chilean Rhubarb, Nalca, Panque.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to southern Chile and neighboring zones in Argentina. Some sources mention from Columbia to Chile.
  • Prefers permanently moist, humus-rich soil in full sun or partial shade.
  • Thrives near ponds, streams, and ditches.

Ecological Role

  • Recognized as a progressive control plant under the West Coast Regional Pest Plant Management Strategy and listed on the National Pest Plant Accord. Also formerly added to the EPPO Alert List in 2013 and transferred to the EPPO observation list.
  • Considered a plant pest with the potential to spread.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • A large herbaceous perennial.
  • Can grow up to 2 meters (6ft 7in) in height, with leaves reaching 4- to 8-foot wide (up to 2.5m across).
  • Forms dense clumps.
  • Has erect spikes of cone-shaped inflorescences.
  • Rhizomatous perennial.

Traditional Uses

  • Indigenous peoples of the Chilean and Peruvian Andes consume the tender young stalks and leaves, referred to as 'nalgas'.

Quirky Facts

  • Gunnera tinctoria was first brought to Ireland in 1939 as an ornamental plant and became a popular garden plant.

Further Information

  • Dave's Garden
  • Digging Dog Mail Order Nursery
  • Monrovia's Chilean Prickly Rhubarb