Gunnera tinctoria |
Syn. Gunnera chilensis
Native Region: South America: Chile to Columbia
Zone Range: 7-11
Preferred Climate: Full to semi sun; moist but well draining humus rich soil
Harvest Date: Thursday 10 December, 2009
Seed count: 30-40
Description:
A smaller sized version of its massive Gunnera manicata cousin. Being half the size, its a great landscaping plant near waterways, ponds, or a damp spot in the garden. Young stems are edible when peeled and are considered a delicacy by the Mapuche where its eaten with salt and chilli. After the first fall frost, cut down leaves and use them to create a cap of leaves to protect from the winter elements in marginal zones. Survived our weeks long -14C in the winter of 2008-09.
Cultivation:
Soak seed 24 hours in room temperature (not hot!) water. We germinate by sow on moist unbleached coffee filter placing seed some distance apart from each other so you have room to prick out the seedlings when they emerge. Fold coffee filter and place in a resealable baggie. Give light and gentle warmth. Check in 14 days and prick out seedlings and transplant in moisture retentive medium. Don't ever let the medium or seedlings dry out. Use a clear plastic cover to maintain humidity. Most should have germinated in 30 days.
|
