Gunnera manicata |
Origin: Tropical high elevation cloud forests of Costa Rica, Brazil, and Columbia.
Zone Range: 7-10
Preferred Situation: Even temperature; evenly moist to boggy fertile soil; shady sites.
Harvest Date: Friday 23 November, 2007
Description:
This is one of the largest herbaceous perennials in the world growing over 2 meter tall with wider spread. A single leaf can reach 2.5 meter in diameter and are shaped to direct rain water to its roots. Prickly stems. A real show stopper in any garden. Three year old plants are massive, so plan accordingly.
Notes:
Though considered hardy in zone 7, Gunneras grown in zones 7-8 need special care in order to survive winters by cutting down all greenery in late October to 30 cm of the root ball then placeing a thick layer of dry mulch over the crown for the winter. The mulch should be kept dry by a tarp or other rain proofing material. Remove mulch when last spring frost is past.
Cultivation:
Easy to grow. You MUST use a two gallon pot for best results as plant growth after their first winter is incredible. Seedlings 3-4 cm in size will resemble rhubarb by the end of August!! Fill pot with fertile moisture retentive medium. Sow thinly and evenly distribute seed over surface (don't touch seed as skin oils interfere with germination). Tamp into soil. Mist often. Keep moist; plastic cover greatly improves success. Provide bottom heat and ventilation. Optimum germination temp: 20-25 C; days to germinate: 30-60. Do not let seed suffer temperatures of 10 C or cooler or germination is delayed. Do not disturb seedlings for two years. Give dilute liquid fertilizer during growing season. Never let seedlings dry out or expose to full/direct sun. After 2 years is over only then transplant to individual containers or seat in permanent site.
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