Rhubarb
rheum rhabarbarum
Also known as: ["pie plant","garden rhubarb"]
Overview
A perennial plant with fleshy, tart stalks used in culinary applications, though leaves are toxic.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","culinary herb","cold hardy","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Polygonaceae |
| Genus: | Rheum |
| Botanical Name: | Rheum rhabarbarum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Well-draining to slightly moist; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, fertile, well-draining loam with plenty of organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late autumn or early spring; remove damaged leaves as needed during the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if overcrowded.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) in cooler climates; partial shade in hot regions to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; provide shade during peak afternoon heat in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon sun in summer; rotate pots for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.
Soil
rich, fertile, well-draining loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Amend soil with organic matter before planting; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; test pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); tolerates frost but may struggle in extreme heat.
Protect from extreme heat and frost; adjust watering with temperature changes; monitor for signs of stress.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring before active growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; water thoroughly after feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or root cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes with a sharp knife.
- Replant divisions at the same depth.
- Water well after planting.
Best Time: Early spring before new growth begins or late autumn after dormancy.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions for root cuttings; full sun for established divisions.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with added compost or peat moss.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; rooting hormone may help with root cuttings.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; root cuttings: 4–6 weeks for roots, 1–2 years for mature plant.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, garden shears, trowel, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; ensure each division has healthy roots and buds; water regularly until established.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stalks at the base; trim leaves with clean, sharp shears; avoid cutting into the crown.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged leaves; thin overcrowded stalks to improve air circulation; cut back foliage in autumn after frost.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut cleanly at the base; remove only dead or damaged growth; clean up debris to prevent disease.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
Plant divisions in holes or pots 12–18 inches deep and wide.
Method
Divide the rhizome; replant in amended soil; ensure good drainage and spacing.
Suggestions
Not typically repotted; division is preferred for propagation and rejuvenation.
Checklist
Prepare new planting site; divide carefully; replant at the same depth; water thoroughly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, increasing to twice weekly in hot, dry conditions; reduce watering in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add compost, well-rotted manure, or leaf mold to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf damage in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration; severe frost can damage or kill tender tissues.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; protect with frost cloth during hard freezes; avoid planting in exposed, windy sites.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may become stunted in prolonged high temperatures.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to keep roots cool and moist.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; water after fertilizing; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; side-dress with compost or well-rotted manure; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive leaf growth.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicThe leaf blades of Rheum rhabarbarum are toxic to cats due to their high oxalic acid content. Cats are particularly sensitive to oxalates, which can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and potential kidney failure if ingested in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe leaf blades of Rheum rhabarbarum are toxic to dogs due to their high oxalic acid content. Ingestion can lead to severe gastrointestinal distress and potential kidney damage, as oxalic acid interferes with calcium metabolism and can form harmful crystals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicThe leaf blades of Rheum rhabarbarum contain high levels of oxalic acid, which can lead to severe physiological effects when ingested. Oxalic acid binds with calcium in the body, forming insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause systemic toxicity, particularly affecting the kidneys and gastrointestinal tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is rhubarb safe to eat?
A: Only the stalks are edible; leaves contain toxic oxalic acid and should be discarded.
Q: How do I grow rhubarb?
A: Plant crowns in early spring in well-drained soil, spacing them 3–4 feet apart.
Q: Can rhubarb be grown indoors?
A: Rhubarb requires cold dormancy and is best suited for outdoor cultivation.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Polygonaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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