Ground Cover Gunnera
While the most famous species in the Gunnera genus grow to massive proportions and are often given names like “dinosaur food”, this little relative from New Zealand grows as a cute, tiny spreading ground cover. A very cute plant, and a fun one to plant underneath your giant Gunneras as they prefer similar conditions. Evergreen to about 20º F. but root hardy to around 0º F of possibly lower when mulched.
Latin Name: Gunnera monoica
Site and Soil: Gunnera prefers half to full day sun with moist soils. Does very well planted on the edge of a pond.
Hardiness: Hardy to about 0º F. but should re-sprout from roots at lower temperatures.
Size at Maturity: 4-6 inches high by a few feet wide
Pests & Diseases: Gunnera is not bothered by pests or diseases.
USDA Zone: USDA Zone 7, possibly root hardy in Zone 6