Abstract
Gunnera insignis (Oerst.) A. DC. is a monogeneric plant which inhabits very moist zones between 1,000 and 2,400 m with a mean temperature between 14 and 17 °C. Under these conditions it is considered a pioneer species, primarily because of its symbiotic association with the nitrogen-fixing algae of the genus Nostoc. Its gigantic leaves may reach 2 m in diameter. The genus is composed of 30 species, two of which are found in Costa Rica: Gunnera insignis and Gunnera talamancana. Due to its peculiar morphologic characteristics, this plant would be better placed in the family Gunneraceae instead of in the family Halorrhagaceae where it is presently located.
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