Rhapontic Rhubarb

Rheum rhaponticum

perennial1.5×1.2 mzone 3–8light shade🍎 Edible

Profile

Family: Polygonaceae
Habit: perennial
Height: 1.5 m
Spread: 1.2 m
Growth: medium
Lifespan: 15 years
First yield: after 2 years
Hardiness: zone 3–8
Shade tolerance: light shade
Soil: Sand, Silt
Soil moisture: semi-dry – very moist
pH: 5.5 – 7.5
Synonyms: False Rhubarb, False rhubarb

Flowering & harvest

	J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
Flowering
Leaf harvest

Times apply to the northern hemisphere in a temperate climate and shift with altitude and cultivar.

Uses

Edible6 of 10

Medicinal5 of 10

Other uses2 of 10

Growing

Rheum rhaponticum prefers a deep, fertile, moderately heavy, humus rich, moisture retentive, well-drained soil in sun or semi-shade. It grows well in heavy clay soils and is hardy to at least -20°C. Propagation is by seed sown in autumn or spring in a cold frame, or by division in early spring or autumn. Plants tolerate pruning poorly. It is shade tolerant but prefers sunny positions. Regular watering is needed during establishment.

⚠️ Hazards

Toxicity: toxic

This is no substitute for expert identification. When in doubt, do not eat it.

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