Gunnera magellanica (Devil’s strawberry) - Marginal Pond Plants - BP043

Gunnera magellanica, commonly known as Devil’s Strawberry or Magellan's Gunnera, is a perennial plant native to the southern regions of South America, particularly in areas like Chile and Argentina. It is a smaller species of the Gunnera genus, known for its striking foliage and its ability to thrive in damp, boggy conditions, making it an ideal plant for wetland gardens, water features, and naturalized spaces.

Description

Gunnera magellanica grows to a height of 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) with a spread of 45–60 cm (18–24 inches). The plant has large, rounded, deeply lobed leaves that are typically bright green with a rough texture, adding an interesting structural element to the garden. The leaves are similar in appearance to those of larger Gunnera species but are more compact.

In late spring to early summer (May to June), Devil’s Strawberry produces small, star-shaped flowers, which are typically red to greenish in colour and grow in clusters. These inconspicuous flowers are followed by small, strawberry-like red fruits, giving the plant its common name.

Growing Conditions

Gunnera magellanica thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers consistently moist or waterlogged soil. It is well-suited to bog gardens, wetland areas, or the edges of ponds and streams where the soil remains damp throughout the year. This plant performs best in slightly acidic to neutral soil, rich in organic matter.

It is hardy in temperate climates and grows well in the UK, tolerating frost and returning reliably each year. However, it does require protection from extreme winter conditions, especially in colder areas.

Propagation and Care

Gunnera magellanica is propagated by seed or division:

• Seed: Sow seeds in early spring in a moist, well-drained soil or compost mix. Keep the soil warm and consistently moist for optimal germination. However, growing from seed can be slow and may take several years for the plant to reach maturity.
• Division: Divide established clumps in early spring or late autumn. Ensure each section has roots and growing points, then replant immediately in moist soil.

Routine care includes:

• Keeping the soil consistently moist throughout the growing season.
• Mulching around the base in winter to help protect the plant from freezing temperatures.
• Removing dead foliage after the plant dies back in autumn to tidy the garden and allow for fresh growth the following spring.

Uses

Ornamental:
Gunnera magellanica is an excellent choice for damp or wetland gardens, particularly along pond edges, streams, or in shaded, boggy spots. Its large, textured leaves and small red fruits add both texture and colour to these spaces, creating a dramatic effect. It pairs well with other moisture-loving plants like Iris, Astilbe, and Marsh Marigolds.

Naturalized Planting:
This species is well-suited for naturalizing in wild, wet areas. It can create lush ground cover in damp gardens or wetlands, enhancing the natural beauty of the landscape.

Pollinator Gardens:
While its flowers are small and inconspicuous, they still attract pollinators, such as bees, and the plant supports local wildlife with its sheltering foliage.

Ecological Value

Gunnera magellanica provides habitat for small insects and contributes to biodiversity in moist garden ecosystems. It helps stabilize soil in wetland areas, preventing erosion, and supports a range of wildlife that thrives in these damp environments.

Considerations

• Moisture Needs: Gunnera magellanica requires consistently moist or waterlogged soil to thrive. It is not suitable for dry garden areas.
• Winter Protection: In colder climates, the plant may require protection from harsh winter conditions, such as a thick layer of mulch to insulate it against freezing temperatures.
• Size Management: Although this species is smaller than other Gunnera varieties, it can still spread through its rhizomes, so it may need occasional division or management to prevent overcrowding in smaller garden spaces.

Summary

Gunnera magellanica (Devil’s Strawberry) is a fascinating and low-maintenance perennial that thrives in damp, moist environments. Its large, textured leaves and small red fruits make it an excellent addition to wetland gardens, pond edges, and naturalized planting schemes. Whether used for its ornamental beauty, habitat creation, or contribution to a wetland ecosystem, Devil’s Strawberry is a valuable plant for moisture-rich garden spaces.

Why Choose Gunnera magellanica (Devil’s Strawberry)?

Gunnera magellanica, commonly known as Devil’s Strawberry, is a striking perennial that thrives in moist, boggy conditions. Known for its large, deeply lobed leaves and unique, vibrant red berries, this plant adds dramatic texture and color to wetland gardens, pond edges, or shaded woodland settings.

1. Large, Bold, Lobed Leaves

• Gunnera magellanica produces large, deeply lobed, green leaves that have a bold, architectural appearance.
• The leaves provide a dramatic, tropical touch to the garden, creating texture and visual interest in damp or shaded areas.

2. Vibrant Red Berries

• In late summer, the plant produces small, bright red berries that resemble strawberries, adding a burst of color against the green foliage.
• These berries give the plant its common name, Devil’s Strawberry, and attract birds and other wildlife.

3. Thrives in Moist, Wet Conditions

• This perennial thrives in moist, boggy soils, making it ideal for planting along pond edges, in wet meadows, or in bog gardens.
• It performs best in full sun to partial shade, ensuring vibrant growth and an abundance of leaves and berries in damp garden areas.

4. Low Maintenance and Hardy

• Once established, Gunnera magellanica is relatively low-maintenance, requiring little care beyond occasional watering to maintain soil moisture.
• It is a hardy plant that can tolerate fluctuating moisture levels and is well-suited to wetland environments.

5. Wildlife-Friendly

• The vibrant red berries attract birds and other wildlife, while the dense foliage provides shelter for small creatures, such as insects and amphibians.
• It is an excellent addition to any wildlife-friendly garden, offering both beauty and ecological benefits.

6. Versatile Garden Use

• Ideal for planting in wetland gardens, along water features, or in boggy areas, where its bold foliage and colorful berries create a striking focal point.
• Works well in naturalistic plantings, rain gardens, or as part of a moisture-loving plant collection.

Key Features

• Height: 30–60 cm (12–24 inches)
• Flowers: Small, inconspicuous flowers that are followed by vibrant red berries
• Foliage: Large, deeply lobed green leaves
• Soil: Moist to wet soil
• Light: Full sun to partial shade

Gunnera magellanica (Devil’s Strawberry) is a dramatic and unique addition to any garden. Its large leaves, vibrant red berries, and adaptability to wetland environments make it a perfect plant for adding structure, color, and wildlife appeal to moisture-rich landscapes.