The mammoth leaf (bot. Gunnera manicata) is also colloquially called giant rhubarb, the similarity is unmistakable. The space required by this impressive leafy perennial is correspondingly high. You should consider this before planting and take it into account when choosing a location.
How to plant a mammoth leaf correctly?
The mammoth leaf (Gunnera manicata) prefers a partially shaded or sunny location with high humidity and moist, humus-rich, slightly acidic soil. Make sure there is enough space, about 2 meters away from neighboring plants, and plant it after the last night frosts in May.
The ideal location and the right soil
Don't plant the mammoth leaf in direct sun, it doesn't feel particularly comfortable there. Partial shade or a sunny spot are much better. In addition, there should be high humidity where the giant rhubarb is located.
The ideal soil for the mammoth leaf is moist and humus-rich and can be slightly acidic. In its Brazilian homeland, it likes to grow in swamps or along stony streams. It can therefore be planted at the edge of the pond, in stony or sandy soil, but not directly into the water.
Enormous space requirement
The mammoth leaf is absolutely not suitable for small gardens. Not only does it grow up to three meters high, but it is also just as wide. The distance to the neighboring plant should be at least two meters, after all the mammoth leaf grows up to half a meter a year, or a little more in the best conditions.
The ideal planting time
Since the mammoth leaf is considered to be sensitive to frost, you should only plant it in the garden after the last night frosts. So wait for at least the Ice Saints in May. In winter the mammoth leaf can remain in the ground, but should be well protected from frost.
The Planting
Dig a sufficiently large planting hole and loosen the soil thoroughly. Then add plenty of well-rotted compost to the planting hole before inserting the mammoth leaf. In the first few weeks, water the young plant abundantly and regularly.
The most important things in brief:
- Origin: cool and humid areas in southern Brazil
- Location: partially shaded or shaded
- Soil: preferably slightly moist, stony or sandy, neutral to slightly acidic
- sprawling growth (up to 3 m high and wide)
- high nutrient requirements
- Planting distance: approx. 2 m
Tip
Choose the location for your mammoth leaf carefully, it does not tolerate a later change well.
