Gunnera perpensa – Benefits in your pond or dam

Gunnera perpensa, or more commonly known as River Pumpkin, is indigenous to South Africa. It can be found growing in natural habitats in Natal, Eastern Cape and Western Cape.

GROWING

It is a large growing marginal plant which grows next to dams, rivers and in wetland habitats. Growing best in shallow waters and marshy grounds. This plant has large leaves which can burn in too much direct sunlight but the leaves below will excel in the shade of the upper leaves and in shady areas.

Growing up to 1 meter across and up to 1 meter in height this plant is wonderful for a large pond or dam. An attractive plant with heart/kidney shaped leaves and vigorous, yet, fleshy stems. It has large clusters of tiny flowers that are maroon to purple in colour, flowering in the spring and summer months, September – February.

The stems will self root as they spread to fill a large ground covering, and can be easily maintained by cutting or snapping off unwanted parts.

A wonderful hiding space for fish and frogs!

Apart from the aesthetic of its large and luscious leaves, aquatic plants such as Gunnera will help keep the balance of nutrients in your pond and provide shade to help prevent the growth of algae. They provide oxygen and natural filtration too.

Plant approximately 10 cm deep, directly into the ground. As long as they have a constant supply of water, very little maintenance is required.

FUN FACTS ABOUT RIVER PUMKIN

It is said to be one of the oldest species of plants still growing on planet earth today, dating back around 95 million years. Dinosaur food!

In South Africa it is used as a “traditional medicine” to help aid in the blood flow during child birth. And, although it is not proven, it is illigally harvested in areas where it is growing wild for this medicinal purpose. Unfortunately this is the main cause of its rapid decline in conservation status. *Please do not try this at home.

On a recent trip to Baviaanskloof, in the Eastern Cape, I was delighted to find some Gunnera Perpensa growing on the side of a stream next to the road. See photo above. The stream also had waterblommetjies growing in it and a lush little forest all around. A vast difference to the other plant life we saw growing in the dryer areas and on the mountain tops.

Gunnera perpensa is a truly South African plant and a must in a large body water like a farm dam or large pond!