Gunnera perpensa

A rarely seen African species that has thrived here for years with no winter protection, so clearly this grey leaved form is hardier than some. Kidney shaped softly hairy grey-green leaves are bold, but are in no way huge, to about 28cm across. Compact, to 75cm tall in leaf, with 1.3m high red-tinged flower spikes rising above the foliage in July. For moister soil on the edge of ponds or streams or like me, in an area that just doesn't get dry. Sun or semi-shade.