Gunnera manicata

Description: A large deciduous clump-forming, spreading, perennial with enormous, rubarb-like, heavily ribbed, bronze-green leaves and flesh-pink conical flowers from July to August. This plant has a fabulous architectural, dramatic-like quality and is one of the most spectacular plants that can be grown in the UK.

Uses: A magnificent plant for marginal planting or in wet soils, at the edge of a large pond or stream where its foliage is reflected in the water.

Climate/Position: Sun or partial shade.

Height/Spread: Height to 2.5 meters, spread to 4 meters.

Soil Requirements: Plant in deep humus-rich, permanently wet, poorly-drained soil with plenty of space.

Pruning: In Autumn, cut back the dying leaves as required.

Special Requirements: Plant in a sheltered position and protect from cold drying winds. In autumn, protect the crowns in winter by bending the dying leaves over the crown of the plant or cut back the dying leaves and cover with a dry winter mulch such as straw.

Additional Interest: This spectacular herbaceous perennial plant was named after a Norwegian bishop and naturalist from the 1700’s, Johan Ernst Gunnera. The species of plant itself is thought to be about 150 million years old.