Herbs with large radical leaves. Flowers in dense spikes or branched panicles. About twelve species are known, nearly all south of the equator, in Africa, America, Australia, and the Antarctic Islands. So named in honour of a Swedish botanist.

1. 0. scabra (fig. 102). - This is remarkable for its large Rhubarb-like leaves with prickly petioles, and the large clubshaped spike of innumerable small flowers of a reddish tinge. A native of Chili, requiring slight protection in severe weather.

Fig. 102. Gunnera scabra. (1/20 nat. size.)