Rheum rhabarbarum

Rhubarb

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Common Name:

Rhubarb

Plant Type:

Flower color:

White

Foliage color:

Green Red

Sun (From 0 to 5):

3

Water (From 0 to 5):

3

Maximum temperature:

30°C

Minimum temperature:

10°C

Maximum height:

90 cm

Maximum width:

120 cm

Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) - Description

Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) is a species of plant in the family Polygonaceae. They are herbaceous perennials growing from short, thick rhizomes. They have large leaves that are somewhat triangular, with long fleshy petioles. They have small flowers grouped in large compound leafy greenish-white to rose-red inflorescences. In culinary use, fresh raw petioles (leaf stalks) are crisp (similar to celery) with a strong, tart taste.

Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) - Growth

Grows best with an air temperature below 80°F (27°C). Plant rhubarb in full sun or light shade.

Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) - Planting

Sow seeds in containers in autumn. Provide some level of cold protection through winter. As spring approaches divide the growing plants and plant outside.

Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) - Pest

Prone to root rot, rusts and blight.

Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) - Interesting facts

The leaf blades are poisonous if ingested. The blades have a relatively high concentration of oxalic acid, which gives the leaves their toxicity. Interestingly enough the petioles of the leaves (otherwise known as the stalks of the leaves) do not share the high concentration of the acid and as a result are edible. These are the plant parts that are famously used in rhubarb pie.