Chinese Rhubarb (Rheum officinale)

Family: Polygonaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Rheum officinale is a PERENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft) by 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen from July to August. 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

Leaf stem - cooked or raw. Rather medicinal. One report says that the plant contains 1.3% rutin. It does not specify which part of the plant, though it is likely to be the leaves. — Leaf stem - cooked or raw.; Rather medicinal.; One report says that the plant contains 1.3% rutin.; It does not specify which part of the plant, though it is likely to be the leaves.

Habitat & North American Range

Hills and forest understories at elevations of 1200 - 4000 metres in western China. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)