About
A high-yielding first early cultivar. The thick stems are deep red at the base, passing to light green with red flecks; flesh is green.
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
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, except cooked leaf stalks. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Harmful if eaten, except cooked leaf stalks - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationThis cultivar was bred for forcing but also performs very well outside. The colour will be better when forced. Can be susceptible to frost
PruningAllow the foliage to die back naturally in autumn then cut away the old leaves to expose the growing points to winter cold
PropagationLift crowns between autumn and early spring (usually in November). Use a spade to divide the crown into sections each retaining a portion of the rhizome (thickened root) and at least one growing point. Sections from the outer part are better than the centres of old plants. Discard any old or decayed parts of the crown. Replant straight away or wrap in damp sacking until ready to plant
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to stem and bulb eelworm, swift moth caterpillar, and to slugs and snails on young growth
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus, downy mildews, grey moulds, crown rot and virus diseases