Is this a perennial tree/shrub?

A giant in the landscape. Gunnera

Big inflorescence.

No, it's a herbaceous plant! It dies down to the ground in winter.

Resin

I have always wanted to grow one of these. They aren't that popular here though.

That is awesome alright, plants are cool.

I wuz just jokin' Resin. It grows big enough though.

That is unbelieveable! I knew they got big but not THAT big.

Growin, around here we see fishermen striking that same pose (usually with shoes on, though) of you and your "catch of the day." I'll bet you go around telling your buddies about the big inflorescence that got away, with your arms spread wide open to exaggerate how big it really was. Nice catch by the way.

I tried one in a pot here once, but it wasn't happy and melted away over winter even in the cold greenhouse. Zone envy strikes again!

Guy S.

I wonder if they will do well in full sun here? It seems like those big leaves would get all wilty in our heat. It sure does look perfect for planting down by my drainage ditch. Talk about privacy!

Even here the leaves will burn in an exposed site. The best situation is next to a body of water with moist soil and I believe the humidity makes all the difference. I saw a Gunnera on Irazu volcano in Costa Rica and they were growing right on the top of the volcano in gullies that remained wet, humid and cool. As the winter approaches the typical practice is to cut the leaves and turn them upside down over the crown for winter protection.

There were some seeds for sale on ebay. What would be the best way to start them, and when?

Seeds!!! Don't do it. Take the plunge and try a plant. There is bound to be someone here that grows the from seed really easily but for me not a chance!

I once did rediculously extensive research on this silly thing and killed one to boot. Apparently, it is rare for them to succeed at all in any place that is not near a Western coast! Sometimes, a greenhouse grower gets lucky. The explanation is that it has certain needs and does not have a forgiving stress factor, so a couple of mild condition stresses will kill it.
Still worth the experience of murdering one in an off location.
Kenton