This rhizomatous perennial forms an upright clump habit with large oblong glossy green leaves that have reddish edible stalks. The greenish-white star-shaped flowers appear on leafless stems during summer. It is commonly used for culinary purpose.

Hardiness zones 3 to 9

Rheum x cultorum is naturally found from eastern Europe to central Asia growing on well drained, fertile moist light soils in an open sunny position and is frost and drought tender.

Rhubarb is aleafy perennial that is grown for its edible stems or for colour and foliage contrast in garden beds. It is also grown in vegetable gardens and containers. It establishes in 1 season from division but should not be harvested until the second year. Rhubarb will produce heavy crops for many years but when vigour is lacking lift and separate, then replant in a new position. ID 1226

Rheum(RAY-um) x cultorum(cul-TOR-um)

Polegonaceae (POL-ee-gon-AY-see-ee)