Description of Gunnera magellanica (Devil's Strawberry)

Gunnera magellanica is devil’s strawberry, a low-growing gunnera used as a ground cover in damp soil. It forms a tight mat of small leaves rather than the giant foliage of larger gunneras.

Appearance

It produces creeping stems with small rounded leaves and tiny reddish flowers followed by red berries. Height stays under 10cm but it spreads to form a carpet.

Care Guide

It prefers cool, moist soil and part shade.

Sun: Part shade to light sun.
Soil: Moist, humus-rich soil.
Water: Keep consistently damp.
Control: Trim edges to keep it within bounds.
Propagation: Divide or lift rooted pieces.

It dislikes hot dry spots and can thin if moisture drops.

Suitability for Bog Garden

This suits bog gardens as a front-edge ground cover and filler between stones. It is useful for covering bare soil without hiding taller plants.

It works best in cooler, shadier parts of the bog.

FAQ

Is Gunnera magellanica a giant plant?
No, it is a low ground cover species.

Does it spread?
Yes, it creeps to form a mat.

Can it grow in shade?
Yes, part shade suits it well.

Is it good for bog gardens?
Yes, in damp, cool soil.