giant rhubarb
Gunnera manicata
USDA zones7 to 10
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterNeeds moist soil
Size6 to 10 feet tall8 to 14 feet wide
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer
- Bloom color
- Red
- Soil types
- Loam, clay
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Notes
Giant rhubarb (Gunnera manicata) is a perennial for low maintenance gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 7, or down to 0°F (-18°C). This plant likes full or part sun and moist, loamy or clay soil. Its heavily textured, sandpapery leaves can reach 6-8 feet wide and are held like umbrellas on tall stems. In fall, mulch the crowns with fallen leaves. Then cut the leaves and place them upside down over the mulch for added protection.
Pairs well with Primrose, Aurea tufted sedge, Siberian iris, and Astilbe.