Contents
Description
Gunnera Manicata, also known as the Giant Rhubarb, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the damp areas of South America. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its giant leaves that can reach up to 10 feet in diameter. Its leaves are so large that they can be used as umbrellas or even as shelters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Gunneraceae |
| Genus | Gunnera |
Appearance
The Gunnera Manicata is characterized by its large leaves that are deeply lobed and can reach up to 10 feet in diameter. Its leaves are green and have a rough texture. Its flowers are small and red, arranged in clusters on a long stalk that can reach up to 6 feet tall. Its fruits are small and contain many seeds. The Gunnera Manicata can grow up to 8 feet in height and spread up to 13 feet wide.
Care Guide
The Gunnera Manicata prefers to be in a damp area with full sun to partial shade. It requires a lot of water and should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist. It prefers a rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer. The Gunnera Manicata is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Gunnera Manicata is susceptible to slugs and snails, which can damage its leaves. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these pests and diseases, keep the area around the plant clean and free of debris. Use slug and snail bait if necessary and treat the plant with a fungicide if it becomes infected.
Habitat
The Gunnera Manicata is native to the damp areas of South America, particularly in Brazil, Colombia, and Argentina. It prefers to grow in areas near water, such as rivers, streams, and ponds. It is commonly found in the Andes Mountains and other high-altitude regions in South America.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Gunnera Manicata be grown in containers?
A: It is not recommended to grow the Gunnera Manicata in containers as it requires a lot of space and water.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Gunnera Manicata?
A: Fertilize your Gunnera Manicata with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer.
Q: Can the Gunnera Manicata tolerate cold temperatures?
A: The Gunnera Manicata is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 7 to 10 and can tolerate cold temperatures down to 0°F (-18°C).
Q: How often should I water my Gunnera Manicata?
A: The Gunnera Manicata requires a lot of water and should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist.
Related Plants
- Gunnera Tinctoria
- Gunnera Perpensa
- Gunnera Chilensis
References
- “Gunnera Manicata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 21, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=273257&isprofile=0&basic=Gunnera%20manicata.
- “Gunnera Manicata.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 21, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/13218/Gunnera-manicata/Details.
- “Gunnera Manicata.” Gardenia.net. Accessed August 21, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/gunnera-manicata-giant-rhubarb.
