Planting guides for Annuals, Biennials, Perennials, Shrub & Vine seeds can be found at:
https://bloomoutlet.com/seed-guides/
Please read both the seed guide and the plant specific sowing instructions. If you are unsure of the best way to germinate the seeds, DO NOT SOW ALL THE SEEDS. Keep some in case the germination method you use doesn’t work.
Cold stratify ALL perennials, shrub & tree seeds for at least 30 days unless the plant specific instructions indicate a longer period.
If you are not ready to plant the seeds, keep it in the refrigerator (not freezer).
GUNNERA MANICATA | GIANT RHUBARB, DINOSAUR FOOD
Plant Specific Instructions (Read “Seed Guide” as well): WARM stratify at 77-86 F (25-30C) for 4-5 weeks. Make sure the humidity is high and constant. Afterwards, COLD stratify at 36 F (2 C) for 80 days (11 weeks). During the cold stratification period, keep it in a dark place. Keep moist (not wet) at all times. Increase the temperatures gradually.
Sow at 72 F (22 C) or more in a seed starting mix. Cover the containers with a plastic bag/dome. Moderate but constant humidity is VERY IMPORTANT. Place in bright indirect light. Germinates when the temperatures slowly rise. Slow to germinate. Germinates in 3-12 weeks in optimal conditions.
Plants prefer very moist (not wet) and warm temperatures 75-86 F (24-30 C).
Oils from the skin can interfere with germination. Wear gloves when handling the seeds. Read the Seed Guide for Perennials. These seeds lose viability quickly so if you’re not planning on planting them right away, please keep them in the refrigerator (NOT freezer).
Botanical Name: Gunnera manicata
Common Name: Giant Rhubarb, Dinosaur Food, Brazilian Giant Rhubarb
Type: Herbaceous Perennial
Flower Color: Orange/Reddish/Green
Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
Plant Height: 6-15 ft (1.8 to 4.5 m)
Plant Spread: 10-12 ft (3-3.6 m)
Light Requirements: Partial Shade. Full Sun in areas with cool summers.
Water Requirements: Moist. Soil must never be allowed to dry out. Suitable for bogs, water gardens, rain gardens.
Soil Requirements: Well-drained. Average. Prefers fertile, humus-rich soil.
USDA Zones: 6-10
AHS Heat Zones: 12-7