Gunnera tinctoria | Giant Rhubarb

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DESCRIPTION
Gunnera tinctoria, or Chilean Rhubarb, is a dramatic perennial known for its enormous, deeply lobed leaves that can grow up to 4-6 feet wide. Native to South America, this striking plant features stout, prickly stems and rough, bright green foliage with a glossy finish, while the undersides and stems are covered in spiky, reddish hairs. In late spring to early summer, it produces dense, conical flower spikes up to 3 feet tall, though the flowers themselves are not particularly ornamental. Ideal for large gardens, Gunnera creates a lush, tropical effect and is well-suited for water gardens, bog gardens, or the edges of ponds, making it a bold focal point in any landscape.

DESCRIPTION
Gunnera tinctoria, or Chilean Rhubarb, is a dramatic perennial known for its enormous, deeply lobed leaves that can grow up to 4-6 feet wide. Native to South America, this striking plant features stout, prickly stems and rough, bright green foliage with a glossy finish, while the undersides and stems are covered in spiky, reddish hairs. In late spring to early summer, it produces dense, conical flower spikes up to 3 feet tall, though the flowers themselves are not particularly ornamental. Ideal for large gardens, Gunnera creates a lush, tropical effect and is well-suited for water gardens, bog gardens, or the edges of ponds, making it a bold focal point in any landscape.

 

  • Family: Gunneraceae
    Height: 6-10 feet
    Width: 8-10 feet
    Foliage Color: Deep green
    Flower Color: Greenish-red, non-ornamental
    Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
    Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
    Water Requirements: High, prefers consistently moist to wet soil
    Maintenance: Moderate
    Growing Zones: USDA zones 7-10
    Wildlife Attractors: Birds and insects

    This plant can be seen in the iris rain garden at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.

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