Contents
Description
Gunnerales is a small plant family that includes only two genera – Gunnera and Myrothamnus. These plants are characterized by their unique and unusual features, making them a popular choice for gardeners and plant enthusiasts. Gunnera is native to the southern hemisphere, while Myrothamnus is found in Africa. In this article, we will explore Gunnerales in detail, including their taxonomy, appearance, care guide, habitat, and common pests and diseases.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliids |
| Order | Gunnerales |
| Family | Gunneraceae |
| Genus | Gunnera and Myrothamnus |
Appearance
Gunnera plants are known for their large leaves that can grow up to 10 feet in diameter, making them one of the largest leaves in the plant kingdom. The leaves are deeply lobed, and the undersides are covered in tiny hairs. The plants produce dense clusters of tiny flowers that sit on tall spikes. Myrothamnus, on the other hand, is a small shrub that grows up to 1 meter tall. It has small leaves that are leathery and produce small inconspicuous flowers.
Care Guide
Gunnerales plants require specific care to thrive. Here are some tips for taking care of your Gunnerales plant:Water: Gunnera plants require consistent moisture, so it is important to keep the soil moist at all times. Myrothamnus, on the other hand, prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate periods of drought.Fertilization: Gunnerales plants require regular fertilization to maintain their growth and health. Use a balanced fertilizer and follow the instructions on the package.Soil: Gunnera plants prefer rich, organic soil that is moist but well-draining. Myrothamnus prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.Sunlight: Gunnera plants require partial shade to full sun, while Myrothamnus prefers full sun.Hardiness Zones: Gunnera plants are hardy in zones 7-10, while Myrothamnus is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gunnerales plants are susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves of Gunnera plants.Scales: These pests can cause yellowing and stunted growth in Myrothamnus plants.Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves of Gunnera plants.
Habitat
Gunnera plants are native to the southern hemisphere, including South America, New Zealand, and Tasmania. Myrothamnus is found in Africa, particularly in countries such as South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Angola. These plants prefer wet and humid environments, such as near streams or in boggy areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Gunnera plants be grown in containers?
A: Due to their large size, Gunnera plants are best grown in the ground. However, smaller varieties can be grown in large containers.Q: How often should I fertilize my Gunnera plant?
A: Fertilize Gunnera plants every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.Q: Are Gunnerales plants invasive?
A: Gunnera plants can be invasive in some areas, so it is important to check with your local authorities before planting them.Q: Can Myrothamnus plants tolerate frost?
A: Myrothamnus plants are sensitive to frost and should be protected during the winter months.
Related Plants
Other plants related to Gunnerales include:
- Trochodendron
- Drimys
- Magnolia
- Liriodendron
References
- Flora of North America: Gunneraceae
- Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh: Myrothamnus
- RHS Gardening: Gunnera
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Gunnera manicata
