Garden Rhubarb

(Rheum rhabarbarum)

Garden Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Rheum rhabarbarum, commonly known as Garden Rhubarb, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to the cool climates of the mountainous regions and grassy slopes in southern Siberia to north and central China. It typically grows to a height of 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 meters) with a similar spread. The plant features large, triangular leaves with long, thick petioles and small flowers arranged in large compound leafy greenish-white to rose-red inflorescences. Garden Rhubarb is particularly noted for its edible stalks, which are often used in pies and desserts. The plant’s roots were historically used for medicinal purposes in Europe and Asia. Flowering occurs in late spring to early summer, with fruit development following shortly after.

Garden Rhubarb thrives in cooler climates and is valued for its easy maintenance and culinary uses. It is often grown in vegetable gardens and is also suitable for border planting due to its large, decorative leaves. Garden Rhubarb requires full sun to part shade, consistent moisture, and well-drained soil with rich organic matter to produce the best stalks. It is important to note that only the stalks are edible; the leaves contain oxalic acid and are toxic if ingested. While it can be invasive in some regions, with a tendency to spread if not managed, it is generally not aggressive.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 5-7.5 feet
  • Width: 5-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Green, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant

Natural Habitat

Native to the mountainous regions and grassy slopes in southern Siberia to north and central China

Other Names

Common Names: Pieplant, Rhubarb, Rabarber, Krauser Rhabarber, Österreichischer Rhabarber, Ruibarbo, Wineplant, Tarharaparperi, Rhubarbe, Rabarbaro

Scientific Names: , Rheum rhabarbarum, Rheum undulatum, Rheum franzenbachii, Rheum undulalum, Rheum macropterum, Rheum undulatum var. longifolium, Rhabarbarum verum, Rheum franzenbachii var. mongolicum, Rheum muricatum

GBIF Accepted Name: Rheum rhabarbarum L.