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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Environment
Helena Horton Environment reporter

UK bans giant rhubarb after study finds popular garden plant is invasive species

Gunnera plants
Gunnera, which is especially popular in stately home gardens, spreads rapidly and chokes native flora, research found. Photograph: Nik Taylor/Alamy

With its dramatic leaves and sprawling structure, the giant rhubarb has long been a popular garden plant, gracing the grounds of stately homes and multiple National Trust properties.

But the UK government is now to enact a ban – similar to that on Japanese knotweed – on the plant, also known as Gunnera, meaning it cannot be sold or cultivated, and those who have it in their gardens must ensure it does not spread.

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