Overview
Gunnera perpensa L. var. angusta Schindl., also known as Wild Rhubarb or Bantu Rhubarb, is a perennial plant native to southern and eastern Africa. It belongs to the family Gunneraceae and is closely related to the commonly known Giant Rhubarb (G. manicata).Appearance
The plant can reach a height of up to 2 meters and has large, circular leaves that can grow up to 90 cm in diameter. The leaves are deeply veined and have an attractive bluish-green color that turns red when they mature. The stems are thick and can grow up to 2 cm in diameter. The plant produces small, red-brown flowers that grow on long spikes in summer.Uses
Gunnera perpensa L. var. angusta Schindl. has various traditional medicinal uses in Africa. The root extract is used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and stomach complaints. The leaves are used to treat wounds, burns, and skin infections. In some communities, the plant is also used as a vegetable, particularly the unfolding leaves, which are cooked and eaten as a side dish. The leaves and stems of the plant are also used as ornamental plants in parks and gardens due to their impressive size and unique appearance.Cultivation
Gunnera perpensa L. var. angusta Schindl. is a hardy plant that grows best in rich, moist soil and partial shade. It can be propagated by seeds, division of the root system or through stem cuttings. Once established, the plant requires little maintenance apart from regular watering, fertilizing, and occasional pruning to remove dead leaves. Overall, Gunnera perpensa L. var. angusta Schindl. is a versatile plant that has various medicinal, culinary, and ornamental uses, and its unique appearance make it a great addition to any garden or landscape.Light Requirements
Gunnera perpensa L. var. angusta Schindl. requires full sun to partial shade to grow well. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade will result in weak and spindly growth. Therefore, it is best to grow this plant in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day.
Temperature Requirements
Gunnera perpensa L. var. angusta Schindl. is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, its optimal temperature range is between 18-25°C (65-77°F). It can survive in temperature extremes of -7°C (19°F) to 30°C (86°F) but may show poor growth and yield under these conditions.
Soil Requirements
Gunnera perpensa L. var. angusta Schindl. prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range for this plant is between 5-7.5. The soil should be moist but well-draining and should not be allowed to dry out completely. It is also important to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot. This plant can benefit from regular fertilization, especially during the growing season, to ensure healthy growth and development.
Cultivation Methods:
Gunnera perpensa L. var. angusta Schindl. is a plant that prefers well-drained soils and grows best in partial to full shade. It is ideal to plant it in a location that has constant moisture, such as near a pond or stream. The plant can be propagated via seeds or by dividing the rootstock.
Watering Needs:
Gunnera perpensa L. var. angusta Schindl. requires consistent moisture to thrive. It is recommended to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant once a week and adjust the frequency based on weather conditions. During dry periods, increase the frequency of watering, and in colder months water it less frequently.
Fertilization:
It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, during the growing season. Apply the fertilizer once per month to enrich the soil. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as it encourages foliar growth at the expense of root development.
Pruning:
Gunnera perpensa L. var. angusta Schindl. requires only minimal pruning. Remove dead leaves and stems from the plant throughout the growing season to encourage healthy growth. After the first frost, the leaves will begin to wilt, and at this point, all the leaves should be removed before winter arrives. This will help prevent disease and pests from settling in the plant's dead foliage.
Propagation of Gunnera perpensa L. var. angusta Schindl.
Gunnera perpensa L. var. angusta Schindl. has various methods of propagation, including:
Seed propagation
The easiest method of propagating Gunnera perpensa L. var. angusta Schindl. is through seeds. Seeds are produced in abundance and easily harvested. The seeds should be collected when they are mature and then cleaned. The cleaned seeds should be planted in seed trays filled with a well-draining medium. The trays should be kept in a warm and moist environment. Germination of the seeds should take place within 14-28 days. Once the seedlings have grown to a height of 5 cm, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Division propagation
Division propagation is another way to propagate Gunnera perpensa L. var. angusta Schindl. Mature plants can be divided into different sections and replanted. The best time to divide the plant is during late autumn or early spring. The plant should be dug out carefully to avoid damaging the stem. The plant should then be divided into sections, making sure that each section has a healthy root system. The sections can be replanted in well-draining soil, making sure the edges of the leaves are above the soil surface.
Cutting propagation
Gunnera perpensa L. var. angusta Schindl. can also be propagated through cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during late autumn or early spring. The cuttings should be 5-10 cm long and taken from healthy plants. The bottom of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone and then planted in a well-draining medium. The cuttings should be kept in a warm, moist environment until the roots have developed, and then transplanted to larger pots or the garden.
Regardless of the propagation method used, Gunnera perpensa L. var. angusta Schindl. plants prefer a moist environment and well-draining soil with full sun or partial shade exposure. A consistent supply of water is necessary for growth and survival.
Disease Management
Gunnera perpensa L. var. angusta Schindl. is generally a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. However, under certain circumstances, this plant may succumb to various diseases. Here are some common diseases that affect Gunnera perpensa L. var. angusta Schindl. and ways to manage them:
- Crown Rot: Crown rot is caused by a soil-borne fungus that attacks the plant's stem and crown. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, wilting, and eventual plant death. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering and ensure that the plant is growing in well-draining soil. Fungicidal sprays may also be effective.
- Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small brown or black spots on the plant's leaves. This disease can be managed by removing infected leaves and avoiding overhead watering, which can promote fungal growth. Fungicidal sprays may also be effective.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the plant's leaves. This disease can be managed by improving air flow around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicidal sprays may also be effective.
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused by a soil-borne fungus that attacks the plant's roots, causing them to turn brown or black and eventually rot. To manage this disease, ensure that the plant is growing in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Fungicidal sprays may also be effective.
Pest Management
Gunnera perpensa L. var. angusta Schindl. can also be susceptible to several pests. Here are some common pests that affect this plant and ways to manage them:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves. This can cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water or use an insecticidal soap or oil.
- Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails are mollusks that feed on the plant's leaves, causing holes and damage. To manage these pests, remove any debris or hiding spots around the plant and handpick the pests. You can also use slug and snail bait, but be sure to follow the instructions carefully.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, improve air flow around the plant and spray the plant with a strong jet of water. Insecticidal soap or oil may also be effective.
- Thrips: Thrips are tiny, slender insects that can cause distorted growth and browning of the leaves. To manage thrips, remove any weeds or debris around the plant and use an insecticidal soap or oil.
