Gardeners seeking to make a dramatic statement in their landscape often turn to plants of impressive scale. Among these, the “Bigfoot Plant” stands out due to its immense foliage. This captivating plant creates a striking focal point, transforming ordinary garden spaces into lush, almost prehistoric-looking havens. Its sheer size and unique texture draw immediate attention, making it a subject of considerable interest for those looking to cultivate something extraordinary.
What is the Bigfoot Plant?
The plant commonly known as the “Bigfoot Plant” is scientifically known as Gunnera manicata, also referred to by other common names like Giant Rhubarb or Chilean Rhubarb. This striking herbaceous perennial is native to the humid, temperate regions of South America, specifically the Serra do Mar Mountains of southeastern Brazil and Colombia. There, it thrives in damp, boggy areas and along stream banks, conditions that contribute to its massive growth and unique appearance.
Its most distinguishing characteristic is its enormous, deeply veined, and textured leaves, which can reach impressive diameters of 6 to 10 feet in mature specimens. These leaves possess a rough, textured surface with prominent veins, contributing to their prehistoric appearance. The leaf stalks, or petioles, are thick, sturdy, and covered with spiny projections, providing structural support for the colossal foliage.
The overall imposing scale of Gunnera manicata creates a dramatic visual impact in any landscape, truly living up to its “Bigfoot” moniker. Despite sharing a common name, it is distinct from true rhubarb and is primarily grown for its striking foliage. Its unique morphology and size have also earned it other descriptive common names, such as Brazilian Giant-Rhubarb and Dinosaur Food.
Cultivating the Bigfoot Plant
Successfully cultivating Gunnera manicata requires attention to its specific environmental preferences. This plant thrives in locations that offer partial shade, though it can tolerate full sun provided that consistent moisture levels are maintained. Dappled sunlight, particularly during the hottest parts of the day, helps prevent leaf scorch and encourages robust growth. It also requires significant space to accommodate its expansive growth habit.
The Bigfoot Plant prefers a rich, humus-filled, consistently moist, and well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Incorporating plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, improves soil fertility, structure, and water retention, which are all beneficial for this water-loving species. Due to its large leaf surface area, Gunnera manicata has very high water requirements, often needing daily watering during the active growing season, especially in warmer climates or during dry spells. The soil should never be allowed to dry out completely.
Optimal temperature ranges for Gunnera manicata typically fall between 50°F and 75°F (10°C to 24°C), and it prefers a humid environment, mimicking its native habitat. While it appreciates warmth, prolonged exposure to extreme heat or overly dry conditions can stress the plant. Fertilizing with a balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer or a liquid feed rich in nitrogen during the growing season supports its vigorous growth. Applying a thick layer of organic mulch around the base also helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and provides a steady release of nutrients.
Winter protection is a crucial aspect of care, particularly in colder climates where temperatures drop below freezing. After the first frost, the large leaves will die back. The dead foliage should be cut back and then piled over the plant’s crown to provide insulation from cold temperatures. This natural mulch layer helps protect the dormant crown from freezing, ensuring the plant’s survival through winter.
Propagating the Bigfoot Plant
Propagating Gunnera manicata is most effectively achieved through division of its rhizomes, particularly during the early spring before new growth emerges. This method involves carefully excavating a portion of the rhizomatous root system, ensuring that each division has at least one dormant bud or growing point. The separated sections can then be replanted into prepared soil, where they will establish new root systems. Adequate moisture is critical for successful establishment of newly divided plants.
Propagation from seed is also possible, though it presents more challenges and is a slower process. Gunnera manicata seeds require specific conditions for germination, often benefiting from a period of cold stratification. Germination rates can be variable, and it takes considerably longer for seed-grown plants to reach a significant size compared to those propagated by division. This method is generally less common for home gardeners due to its relative difficulty and extended timeline.
Addressing Common Challenges
Gardeners cultivating the Bigfoot Plant may encounter a few common issues, most of which relate to environmental conditions. If the leaf edges begin to brown or crisp, it often indicates insufficient water or exposure to excessive direct sunlight, particularly during hot periods. Increasing watering frequency and ensuring the plant receives some afternoon shade can alleviate this symptom. Maintaining consistent soil moisture is a primary defense against leaf desiccation.
Pests such as slugs and snails can be attracted to the large, succulent leaves of Gunnera manicata, especially in damp conditions. These pests can cause significant damage by chewing holes in the foliage. Various control methods, including bait, barriers, or manual removal, can help manage their populations.
While generally robust, Gunnera manicata can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly draining or waterlogged soil. Ensuring proper drainage and avoiding waterlogged conditions are important preventative measures for maintaining the plant’s health. A lack of vigor or stunted growth can sometimes suggest nutrient deficiencies, which can be addressed with appropriate fertilization.