About Gunnera magellanica Lam.
Scientific Name
Gunnera magellanica Lam.
Leaf Traits
Unlike its related species G. tinctoria and G. manicata, Gunnera magellanica has small leaves, approximately 6 cm (2.4 in) across. Its leaves are rounded or kidney-shaped, have stipules, are borne on long petioles that measure 2–10 cm (0.79–3.94 in), and have crenate edges.
Floral Characteristics
Its flowers are unisexual, and female inflorescences are shorter than male inflorescences.
Fruit Features
The fruit is a bright red berry-like drupe 3–5 mm in diameter.
Growth Adaptations
Its leaves die back during the austral autumn, so G. magellanica survives year-round via underground rhizomes, and is therefore classified as a cryptophyte.
