Overview
Rheum nobile is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Rheum, part of the Polygonaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Rheum nobile grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include architectural, cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens and flower borders and beds.
About
It is an extraordinary species of rhubarb (genus Rheum). At 1–2 m tall, the monocarpic inflorescences of R. nobile tower above the other shrubs and low herbs in its habitat, and it is visible across valleys from several kilometres. R. nobile is often called a glasshouse plant because of its outer curtain of translucent bracts which pass visible light, creating a greenhouse effect, while blocking ultraviolet radiation. These are likely defenses against the increased UV-B exposure and extreme cold in its high altitude range. It is native to Afghanistan, East Himalaya, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and other regions. In the garden it prefers full sun and partial shade and loam soil. In UK gardens it is very hardy across most of the UK (RHS H6). Suggested uses include architectural, cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens and flower borders and beds. It tolerates acid and neutral soils, moist but well-drained conditions and south-facing, east-facing, north-facing and west-facing aspects.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Rheum nobile
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Rheum
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Rheum nobile size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Rheum nobile
- Propagation
- Division in Spring
- Pest resistance
- Slugs, Aphids
- Disease resistance
- Honey fungus, Downy mildews, Grey mould, Crown rot, Virus diseases
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Rheum nobile?
Rheum nobile prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Rheum nobile need?
Rheum nobile grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Rheum nobile hardy in the UK?
Rheum nobile has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Rheum nobile?
Division in Spring.
More in the Rheum genus
- Rheum webbianumSmall Himalayan rhubarb
- Rheum x hybridum 'Poulton's Pride'rhubarb 'Poulton's Pride'
- Rheumrhubarb