Overview
Rheum officinale is a perennial herb in the genus Rheum, part of the Polygonaceae family. It typically grows around 2.0 m tall. Rheum officinale grows best in full sun, and tolerates loamy and clay soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. It is native to Western China and Tibet.
About
Rheum officinale is a perennial herb in the Polygonaceae that reaches around 2.0 m and produces prominent flowering stems in June to July. It prefers full sun on loamy or clay soils that remain moist but are well drained. Rated H6 (very hardy) it will tolerate typical UK winters across much of the country. Allow generous space for its height when siting it in a border or specimen position.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Rheum officinale
About the genus
Rheum is a genus of about 60 herbaceous perennial plants in the family Polygonaceae. Species are native to eastern Europe, southern and eastern temperate Asia, with a few reaching into northern tropical Asia. Rheum species are cultivated in Europe, Asia, and North America.
Wikipedia contributors, "Rheum (plant)", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Rheum (plant)
In the garden
Rheum officinale is a tall perennial herb from western China and Tibet, placed in the genus Rheum within the Polygonaceae. Plants reach about 2.0 m and produce their flowering display in June to July, when upright stalks rise above the foliage. Grow it in full sun on loamy or clay soils that hold moisture yet drain; keep soil consistently moist rather than bone dry. The species is assessed as H6 (very hardy) for the UK, corresponding to general suitability across much of the country; the USDA range 6–9 indicates it also suits milder temperate gardens elsewhere. Give specimens room for their stature and avoid tight, crowded sites where flowering stems would be shaded. Use Rheum officinale where height and summer flowering are wanted: at the rear of a mixed herbaceous border, alongside larger shrubs, or in a moisture-retentive planting bed. Regular soil moisture and a sunny aspect help produce reliable flowering in June–July. Expect flowering stems to reach approximately 2.0 m, so allow clearance over neighbouring plants and paths.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Rheum
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Rheum officinale size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial herb
- Height
- 2.0 m
- Native to
- Western China, Tibet
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Rheum officinale
- Propagation
- Seed, division
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Rheum officinale?
Rheum officinale prefers full sun.
What soil does Rheum officinale need?
Rheum officinale grows best in loamy and clay soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Rheum officinale grow?
Rheum officinale reaches a height of 2.0 m.
Is Rheum officinale hardy in the UK?
Rheum officinale 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 officinale?
Seed, division.
