Overview
Rheum webbianum is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Rheum, part of the Polygonaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Rheum webbianum 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
Rheum webbianum is a species of herbaceous perennial rhubarb-relative in the family Polygonaceae from the southwestern Himalayan region, known in (Indian) English as Indian rhubarb, Gilgiti rhubarb or small Himalayan rhubarb. In the wild it grows across Nepal, Pakistan, Tibet and West Himalaya. Grow it in full sun and partial shade and loam soil. In UK gardens it is very hardy across most of the UK (RHS H6). It works well for 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. Plant in well-drained soil. Water during establishment.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Rheum webbianum
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 webbianum 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 webbianum
- 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 webbianum?
Rheum webbianum prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Rheum webbianum need?
Rheum webbianum grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Rheum webbianum hardy in the UK?
Rheum webbianum 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 webbianum?
Division in Spring.
