[Cal-IPC] Chile native: Gunnera tinctoria (Chilean Gunnera) is a perennial herb/ (family Gunneraceae) with clusters of purple flowers and large prickly leaves found in the central coast ranges of California. Chilean Gunnera has both female and male flower parts. It is native to Chile. It occurs in grasslands, wetlands, bogs and woodlands. It spreads via seeds and rhizomes. Its seeds are dispersed by birds and water. (contributed by Mary Ann Machi)

[www.iucngisd.org] Ecological impact, invasiveness: Law (2003) report that, "G. tinctoria shades out rare and endangered indigenous flora and fauna. The huge leaves of each G. tinctoria mean it can impact on a disproportionately large number of the comparatively small, native herbs. Areas that have been cleared of mature G. tinctoria can become re-colonized with numerous seedlings from the original plants, and pieces of the rhizomes that break off will also re-grow. In areas with harsh winter frosts, G. tinctoria is deciduous or semi-deciduous. Once established, it is very invasive and forms dense colonies that shade-out or suppress desirable flora. These characteristics have contributed to it being a serious threat to indigenous biodiversity values in areas it has invaded ". Weedbusters (2003) report that G. tinctoria can block drains and streams; and obstruct access to natural and recreational areas. (contributed by Mary Ann Machi)