Description

A very architectural plant, Rheum palmatum (Chinese Rhubarb) is a clump-forming rhizomatous perennial grown primarily for its huge, palmately-lobed, dark green leaves, up to 74cm long , and its feathery plumes of pink or creamy-white flowers. Blooming from late spring to midsummer, they rise on an imposing flower stalk as if to reach the sky. An unforgettable sight that will make you forget that rhubarb is a vegetable! A dramatic accent plant for borders or near streams and ponds. Give it lots of space. The roots are used in Chinese medicine for treatment of a variety of medical conditions including constipation, diarrhea, peptic ulcers, immunosuppression, high blood pressure and cancer. Grows up to 180-300 cm high and 120-180 cm wide. Once established, plants persist for many years.
Performs best in full sun to part shade, in fertile evenly moist but well-drained soils. Appreciates some part shade in hot summer climates.