Gunnera magellanica is a low-growing, mat-forming perennial native to South America, prized for its attractive, rounded foliage and ability to create lush ground cover in damp, shaded areas. Unlike its giant relative Gunnera manicata, this compact species stays small and manageable, making it ideal for bog gardens, woodland edges, and alongside streams or ponds. Its foliage turns rich bronze in autumn, and it produces small reddish flowers followed by dark berries. Gunnera magellanica thrives in consistently moist, humus-rich soils and offers excellent textural contrast in shady settings.

why we like it

• Dense, decorative ground cover for damp areas

• Tolerates shade and brings texture to woodland gardens

• Compact and easy to manage compared to larger Gunnera species

what to know

• Prefers moist, humus-rich soil

• Grows best in partial shade or dappled sunlight

• Mulch in colder regions for winter protection

• Water well in dry periods to maintain lush growth

• Can slowly spread via underground rhizomes

flower colour
Reddish

flowering months
May, June

Height and Spread
Height: 10–20 cm
Spread: 60–90 cm