Where to Buy the Giant Gunnera Manicata Plant

The Gunnera manicata, also known as the giant rhubarb or dinosaur food plant, is an imposing and prehistoric looking plant that has become coveted by gardeners and plant collectors. With leaves that can grow over 6 feet tall and as wide as 5 feet across, it’s easy to see why these monster plants attract so much attention. But where can you actually buy a Gunnera manicata for your own landscape or container garden? Here’s an in-depth look at options for purchasing these magnificent plants.

Gunnera Manicata Plant Overview

Before diving into sources for these incredible plants let’s briefly look at what makes the Gunnera manicata so unique

• Native to Brazil, it’s the largest species in the Gunnera genus, with some leaves topping 10 feet tall in ideal conditions!

• The mature foliage emerges in spring from large, hollow stems that die back each winter.

• The huge, ruffled leaves resemble giant hands with prickly stems and undersides Their primeval look earns them the nickname “dinosaur food plant”

• Prefers moist, acidic soil and thrives in subtropical climates, but can grow in pots elsewhere. Cold hardy to USDA Zone 7.

• Makes an unforgettable statement in large gardens and containers Also great for ponds and bog gardens

With its monstrous size yet easygoing nature, the Gunnera manicata offers something truly unique for gardens. Now let’s look at the best places to buy one of these amazing plants.

Mail Order Specialty Nurseries

For the widest selection and best prices on Gunnera manicata plants for sale, specialty mail order nurseries are a top source. The largest selections of rare and unusual plants are typically only available online. Here are some reputable nurseries offering these plants:

• Glasshouse Works – A huge selection of tropical and hardy Gunnera from 2″ up to 5-gallon sizes for $10-$160.

• Burnt Ridge Nursery – Various Gunnera species including G. manicata in gallon pots for $35-$55 depending on size.

• Logee’s – 4″ and gallon pots ranging from $27-$54. One of the few to offer smaller starter sizes.

• Brighter Blooms – Budget-friendly 3″ and 6″Gunnera starts for just $15-$35 and free shipping.

• Gabriella Plants – Specializes in aquatic and bog plants. Offers 3 size options from quart to 3-gallon.

• Plant Delights Nursery – Large cold-hardy named selections like ‘Silvery Ann’ and ‘Pink Panther’ from $27-$150.

Though shipping costs can be high for large, heavy plants, the convenience and selection of mail order nurseries make them the ideal source for Gunnera manicata.

Local Independent Nurseries

Another option is to check with local specialty nurseries to see if they carry tropical selections like the Gunnera. Call ahead since inventory fluctuates.

The benefit of sourcing locally is you can see and select specific plants and avoid shipping damage. The drawback is supply can be limited based on your climate. If you’re lucky enough to live in Zone 7 or warmer, you’ll have better odds of finding these monsters at a neighborhood greenhouse.

Big Box Stores and Garden Centers

Occasionally, Home Depot, Lowe’s and other large chains bring in Gunnera when they stock tropicals for summer. But finding these plants for sale at big box stores is hit or miss due to their specialty nature.

Visit frequently and snatch them up quickly if spotted, since stock sells out fast. You may get lucky and find an affordable small starter size for under $20.

Independent garden centers and nurseries are another option, especially in warm climates. Call to check availability and be prepared to pay a premium compared to mail order sources.

Buying Gunnera Manicata Seeds

If you don’t mind waiting a few years for your plant to mature, you can buy Gunnera manicata seeds fairly cheaply on eBay, Etsy and Amazon.

Search for “gunnera manicata giant rhubarb seeds” to find listings priced from $2-$10 for a packet. The downside is germination rates can be spotty, requiring patience as you wait to see any sprouts.

Finding Mature Plants on Craigslist and Facebook

Here’s a creative way to score a large Gunnera for a fraction of the cost – check Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace in your area to see if anyone is selling or giving away these plants.

As they rapidly outgrow their space, people often need to rehome oversized specimens. You can sometimes find 5-10 year old plants for just $50-100 on resale sites.

Key Tips for Buying a Healthy Gunnera Manicata

When purchasing a Gunnera manicata, look for these signs of a strong, vigorous plant:

• A proportional root system – avoid top heavy or rootbound plants

• Established rhizomes and new spears emerging from the crown

• Clean, blemish-free leaves with no yellowing or brown spots

• A balanced shape and full form rather than spindly or sparse growth

• Moist soil but no signs of rotting, mushrooms or mildew

With proper care after transplanting, a healthy rhizome will quickly adjust and take off growing. Within one season, you can gain several feet of stunning foliage!

Caring for Your New Gunnera Manicata Plant

Once you get your eagerly awaited Gunnera manicata plant home, proper care and favorable conditions will keep it thriving:

• Site in part sun to full shade based on your climate. Provide afternoon shade in hot areas.

• Prepare a bog garden or amend soil to retain moisture. Add compost and acidic mulch.

• Water frequently, keeping the soil consistently damp but not soggy.

• Fertilize regularly in spring and summer, especially with nitrogen to fuel fast growth.

• Protect the crown and rhizomes when temps drop below 25°F in winter. Mulch heavily in cold climates.

• Be patient! It may take 1-2 years for a small plant to start producing the full massive leaves these plants are known for. Proper nutrition and moisture will speed maturity.

Owning a Gunnera manicata is a commitment due to their substantial needs once established. But the rewards are great when those elephant ear-sized leaves unfurl each spring from their tropical-looking stems. Just be sure you have room for these monsters to reach their full giant potential!