Botanical name:

Gunnera monoica 

Common name(s):

Native gunnera

About:

This is the most common species, as it can be found thriving in a diverse range of habitats throughout the entire country. The plant forms a dense mat of rounded and lobed dark green leaves that exhibit a texture resembling that of leather, which adds to its distinctive appearance. Notably, both male and female flowers occur on the same plant, and these flowers are subsequently followed by small, white berries that are typically hidden among the lush leaves, making them somewhat elusive to spot.

Natural habitat: 

Damp, moist ground and frequently seen growing on roadside banks.

Growing environment:

Sun, Wind, Wetland & Shade tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

Throughout New Zealand 

Height: 3cm

Flowering:  

October - November  with a yellow coloured flower/s  

Fruiting:

December – February 

Uses: 

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings & Ground cover

How to grow:

Easily grown from rooted pieces and divisions of whole plants. They prefer a damp soil in sun or light shade.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4 weeks cold stratification will help speed this up though