are they one of each sex, you will need this if you want seeds, I don't know much about the giant rhubarb, some say that you can eat the fruit, but I would not take a chanch untill I knew more

they do cross pollenate each other and have multiplied year on year. the seeds are highly poisonous but i have hered that they are used in medicene. i have extremely itchy reaction after removing three of the tubars. i have either been bitten by something or come into contact with sap from the plant. i am not sure but it is like stingy nettle sting for over three days.

People have different reactions to different plants - you may be allergic to the bristly stems/leaves, or to the sap. Ny husband gets an allergic reation to Ivy if he even brushes against it.

Gunnera is not on the RHS toxic list, by the way.

I would try calamine lotion to soothe the rash.

I agree with all that Spritzhenry has written but if the rash continues or you are concerned, go and see your doctor.

yes i agree it sounds like an allergic reaction antihistamine cream on the area would help.

also try periton or becinase tablets . they are antihistamines and work from within. antihistan cream is also good. I have a similar response to this plant too. drives me mad. i dont grow it as a consequence.

thanks for your replies. the above has all helped. i do like the plants and what they give in shade for the pond is great, so i will have to be more carefull in future.