rhubarb
Rheum rhaponticum
Victoria
About this plant
Rheum rhaponticum, or rhubarb, is a perennial plant known for its large leaves and thick, edible stalks that are often used in cooking and baking. The stalks have a tart flavor and are commonly made into pies, jams, and sauces. The leaves are toxic and should not be eaten. Rhubarb has been cultivated for centuries and is valued both as a food plant and for its ornamental large foliage.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Rheum
- Family
- Polygonaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Caryophyllales
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Europe, Asia
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated in temperate regions worldwide, especially in Europe, North America, and parts of Asia.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -30 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 15-22 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 3-8
- Soil pH
- 6.0-6.8
- Soil type
- well-draining loam, rich in organic matter
Watering. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water more frequently during dry spells.
Fertilizing. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as growth begins. Additional feeding during the growing season can promote healthy stalk development.
Rhubarb is a hardy perennial that grows best in cool climates with well-drained soil. It needs regular watering but dislikes waterlogged conditions. Watch for leaf spots and pests occasionally. It requires moderate maintenance, including removing old leaves and dividing plants every few years.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Division, Seeds
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Large, crinkled green leaves and tall clusters of small greenish flowers in summer.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Leaves contain oxalic acid and are toxic if ingested. Keep away from children and pets.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Rheum rhaponticum, commonly known as rhubarb, can cause skin irritation in some people due to its sap. Those sensitive to plant saps should handle it with gloves. The plant's pollen is not a significant allergen. To reduce exposure, avoid direct contact with the sap and wash hands after handling.
Common problems
Rhubarb can suffer from leaf spot diseases and pests like aphids if conditions are too wet or crowded. Overwatering can cause root rot, and insufficient sunlight may reduce growth and stalk quality.
Uses
Primarily grown for its edible stalks used in cooking and baking. Also valued as an ornamental garden plant due to its large leaves.
Notes
Remove flower stalks early to encourage leaf and stalk growth. Divide clumps every 4-5 years to maintain vigor. Avoid eating leaves due to toxicity.