Compactum Rheum (Rheum compactum)

Family: Polygonaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Rheum compactum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavour, it can be used as a rhubarb substitute. — Leaf stem - cooked.; A tart flavour, it can be used as a rhubarb substitute.

Habitat & North American Range

Banks of rivers and brooks, valleys and slopes. Slopes at elevations around 2000 metres in Tibet. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)