Gunnera
Gunnera tinctoriafam. Rubiaceae
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Pl. 7763 — Gunnera tinctoria
Gunnera tinctoriaGunnera tinctoriaGunnera tinctoriaGunnera tinctoriaGunnera tinctoriaGunnera tinctoriaGunnera tinctoriaGunnera tinctoriaGunnera tinctoriaGunnera tinctoriaGunnera tinctoriaGunnera tinctoriaGunnera tinctoriaGunnera tinctoria
IOverview
Overview
Gunnera tinctoria, commonly known as Gunnera, is a perennial herb native to the southern regions of Argentina and Chile. This plant thrives in moist conditions with light to partial sun exposure, making it adaptable to various soil types including sandy, medium, and clay soils. Known for its ornamental value due to its large, coarsely toothed leaves, Gunnera is also valued as an edible plant, with its stems being the parts that can be consumed. Medicinally, it has documented uses, though specific applications are not detailed here. With a height of up to 2 meters, this robust plant is a striking addition to gardens and landscapes in hardiness zones 6-9.
Quick answers
What is Gunnera?
Gunnera tinctoria, commonly known as Gunnera, is a perennial herb native to the southern regions of Argentina and Chile. This plant thrives in moist conditions with light to partial sun exposure, making it adaptable to various soil types including sandy, medium, and clay soils.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Gunnera thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 6-9 and grows as a perennial, reaching heights of up to 2 meters. For propagation, division of the rhizomes works well. The edible parts include the stems, making this plant both ornamental and useful for culinary purposes.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
2.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Gunnera for the first time
8steps
Start with Gunnera as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Gunnera plant or seeds, a trowel, and mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining but moisture-retentive. Amend with organic matter if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants directly into the garden or start seeds indoors 8 weeks before planting outside.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade, regular watering, and mulch to retain moisture.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves in late winter to maintain plant health and appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in poor soil, neglecting to prune, not providing enough shade, and using harsh pesticides.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Stem
Edible uses: The stem of Gunnera tinctoria is edible and can be prepared in various ways. Typically, it is cooked before consumption to ensure safety and improve its texture. The stems are often boiled or steamed and can also be stir-fried or used in soups. Skip the raw form as it may not be palatable or safe.
Other uses:DyeRoofingTannin
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 8 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 8 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 3 native· 8 introduced
Europe4 regions
introduced (4)FranceIrelandPortugalUnited Kingdom
Broader regions
native:Argentina South, Chile Central, Chile South
introduced:Oregon, Washington, British Columbia, California
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Rubiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rubiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 77636f71-eb20-460d-b954-9b840bdab8c3
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