Gunnera Manicata are one of those plants that became trendy in gardens open to the public a couple of decades ago. A plant big enough to stand under that makes a bold statement beside water, it needs a lot of space. In fact it may need far more space than we’re prepared to give it. A similar variety, G, tinctoria appears to be the worse culprit, but both manicata could also be invasive. Last summer I saw a gunnera, which looks like a giant rhubarb, in the mill leat close to the Exe.

This photo was taken at a National Trust garden a few years ago. I could easily stand under the leaves, but had to be careful of the prickles. Becky’s spikes are unusual today, check them out here.