Also known as Common Rhubarb · False Rhubarb · Garden Rhubarb
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans. See toxicity details.
Rheum rhaponticum, also known as medicinal rhubarb, is a herbaceous perennial grown for its medicinal properties. Native to the Altai Mountains.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Cool to Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in cooler temperatures, tolerates moderate heat.
Moderate Feeding
50% intensity
Annual compost and monthly balanced liquid feed during growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
The leaves and roots contain high levels of oxalic acid, which is toxic if ingested in large quantities. Only the leaf stalks (petioles) are typically consumed.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Rheum rhaponticum prefers consistently moist soil. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry, especially during hot, dry periods. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Regular watering encourages healthy leaf and stalk development.
Remove spent flower stalks after flowering to prevent self-seeding and direct energy back into root and stalk production.
In late autumn or early spring, cut back dead foliage to the ground to maintain plant health and appearance. Division of overcrowded clumps can also be considered pruning.
Propagate Rheum rhaponticum by division of established clumps in early spring or autumn. Carefully separate sections of the root system, ensuring each division has at least one bud.
Replant immediately into well-prepared soil, watering thoroughly.
Rheum rhaponticum is a large, perennial plant and is not typically repotted once established in the ground. If grown in a very large container, repotting may be necessary every 3-5 years in early spring, moving to a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Rheum Rhaponticum (Rheum rhaponticum)
Where Rheum Rhaponticum (Rheum rhaponticum) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Rheum |
| Species | Rheum rhaponticum |
Similar in genus Rheum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
