🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Gunnera magellanica serves as a ground cover, controlling erosion due to its dense growth habit. Its leaves can be used as a wrap for food, although not highly palatable. The young petioles are edible when cooked, similar to rhubarb, but less intensely flavored. It is valued for moisture retention in permaculture gardens.
Permapeople description
Gunnera magellanica is a perennial plant native to South America, specifically the Magellanic subpolar region. It is characterized by its small size, creeping habit, and kidney-shaped leaves. It is often found in moist habitats such as bogs and along streams.
Botanical description
Gunnera magellanica is a creeping, rhizomatous perennial herb native to southern South America. It features rounded, kidney-shaped leaves that are typically 2-8 cm in diameter, with crenate margins. The leaves are dark green and often exhibit a wrinkled texture. It produces small, inconspicuous reddish-green flowers in dense spikes, followed by small, reddish fruits. The plant spreads via rhizomes, forming dense mats. It thrives in moist, shady conditions.
Companion planting
Gunnera magellanica generally performs well alongside other moisture-loving plants. Its dense growth habit may suppress smaller, less vigorous plants if not managed. It works well in riparian buffer zones with species like ferns, mosses, and other shade tolerant groundcovers. Avoid planting near very competitive species that might outcompete it for sunlight and moisture.
Propagation methods
Propagation is typically achieved through division of the rhizomes in spring or autumn. Seed propagation is also possible, although slower and less reliable. Cuttings from rhizome sections can also be rooted.
History and traditions
Traditionally, indigenous peoples of southern South America have used Gunnera magellanica for food and medicinal purposes. The petioles have been consumed as a vegetable, and the plant has been employed in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, though specifics are scant. It's also been used to create shelters.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs primarily in spring and summer (October-February in the Southern Hemisphere). Rhizome division is best done in spring or autumn. Leaves are typically harvested in the spring and summer when they are most abundant. Planting is best undertaken in Spring.