About
This ornamental rhubarb cultivar whose young leaves are crimson, aging to green; they are large, palmate and incised. Flower spikes in early summer can reach 2m in height.
About the genus
Rheum are robust rhizomatous herbaceous perennials with large, simple or palmately lobed leaves and tall leafy stems bearing large panicles of tiny flowers
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Architectural, Wildlife gardens
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationRequires a fertile, moisture-retentive soil, so mulching is beneficial
PruningDeadhead spent flower spikes
PropagationPropagate by division in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and aphids
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free