Gunnera Manicata

[whis4ey]

It is that time of year again
The Gunnera is heading for the stars

[EagleEye]

Must be cool to have that plant and watch the amazing growth. I love watching it grow from over here

Steve

[Timgod]

I keep looking at that. I think it is a cool plant. However I am allergic to the regular red rhubarb. If it touches my skin I get blisters like someone has thrown acid at me. I figure this plant is just to much of a chance. As it is I get stuck regularly by all of my palms etc. etc.
Working in my yard can be a real "pain" sometimes...LOL
TIm

[whis4ey]

It isn't of the rhubarb family Tim .... rhubarb comes from the family Rheum
The Gunnera is an entirely different animal ...  you should be quite safe

[Timgod]

whis4ey,
Any idea why they call it giant rhubarb?
I know it is different families but the foliage is very similiar and everytime I read about them they warn of prickly points, sharp edges and allergic reactions.
That is why even in a different family I have been wary of it.
Tim

[whis4ey]

The bottom of the leaves are indeed very prickly  .... I don't touch them 
It is called giant rhubard simply because the leaves have the look of rhubarb leaves
They can reach 6 feet across when spread out

[Timgod]

Thanks for the 411.
Tim