About
A rhizomatous perennial to 2m high, with large basal leaves that emerge from the ground in late spring. Leaves are jagged and deeply cut, and dark reddish-purple when young, maturing to intense green with red undersides and long, thick reddish stems. In summer, tall, branching flower stems bear upright clusters of tiny, compactly set flowers in shades of white, pink or deep red.
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 sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Cottage and informal garden
Native toChina
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
CultivationGrow in deep, moist, fertile soil, ideally in a sunny position. Mulch with organic matter in early spring. While slightly smaller than the species, this variety still needs plenty of space
PruningDeadhead spent flower spikes, cut back faded leaves at the end of the season
PropagationPropagate by division in early spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and blackfly (black aphid)
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to crown rot, honey fungus and virus diseases