Garden Rhubarb

Garden Rhubarb: The Bold and Beautiful Edible Ornamental

If you’re looking for a plant that pulls double duty as both eye candy and kitchen staple, garden rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) might just be your new garden crush. This robust perennial brings serious drama to any landscape with its massive, crinkled leaves and vibrant red or green stalks that practically scream look at me! But before you fall head over heels, let’s dig into what makes this plant tick and whether it’s the right fit for your garden.

What Exactly Is Garden Rhubarb?

Garden rhubarb is a herbaceous perennial forb – fancy gardening speak for a non-woody plant that dies back in winter but returns each spring with renewed vigor. This sturdy character can live for decades once established, making it a true garden investment. Originally hailing from Central Asia, including Mongolia, northern China, and Siberia, rhubarb has been wandering the globe and making itself at home in gardens worldwide.

Native Status and Where It Grows

Let’s be upfront: garden rhubarb isn’t native to North America. It’s what we call a non-native species that has naturalized in many areas, meaning it can survive and even reproduce on its own in the wild. You’ll find established populations across a surprisingly wide range, including Alaska, most Canadian provinces, and numerous U.S. states from coast to coast – from Alabama up to Alaska and everywhere in between.

While rhubarb isn’t considered invasive or problematic, native plant enthusiasts might want to consider alternatives like wild ginger (Asarum canadense) or mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum) for similar bold foliage effects with local ecological benefits.

The Good, The Great, and The Hmm, Maybe Not

Why you’ll love it:

• Stunning architectural presence with leaves that can reach 2-3 feet across
• Edible stalks perfect for pies, jams, and that classic strawberry-rhubarb combo
• Extremely hardy and long-lived (we’re talking decades here)
• Attracts pollinators when the tall flower spikes bloom
• Low maintenance once established

Potential drawbacks:

• Leaves are toxic to humans and pets (stick to eating the stalks only!)
• Takes up considerable space – not ideal for tiny gardens
• Goes dormant in hot weather, leaving gaps in summer displays
• Can be slow to establish from seed

Perfect Garden Homes for Rhubarb

Garden rhubarb shines in kitchen gardens where form meets function, but don’t overlook its ornamental potential. It’s fantastic in cottage gardens, mixed borders, or as a specimen plant where you want to make a bold statement. The dramatic foliage pairs beautifully with ferns, hostas, and other shade-loving perennials.

Growing Conditions That Make Rhubarb Happy

Think cool and comfortable when planning for rhubarb. This plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3-8, preferring areas with cold winters and moderate summers. Here’s what it craves:

• Soil: Rich, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter
• Light: Full sun to partial shade (appreciates afternoon shade in hot climates)
• Water: Consistent moisture, especially during growing season
• Space: Give it room to spread – plants can reach 3-4 feet tall and wide

Planting and Care Tips for Success

The secret to rhubarb success? Patience and proper planting. Here’s your roadmap:

Planting: Start with crown divisions in early spring, planting them 2-3 inches deep in rich soil. Space plants 3-4 feet apart – trust us, they’ll fill in!

First year care: Resist the urge to harvest – let your plant focus on establishing strong roots.

Ongoing maintenance:

• Mulch heavily to retain moisture and suppress weeds
• Remove flower stalks to keep energy focused on leaf production
• Divide every 5-7 years to maintain vigor
• Stop harvesting by mid-summer to let plants build energy for next year

Wildlife and Pollinator Benefits

While rhubarb’s primary appeal might be culinary, it does offer some ecological perks. The tall flower spikes, if allowed to bloom, attract bees and other pollinators with their clusters of small, creamy white flowers. However, since most gardeners remove these flowers to maintain leaf production, the pollinator benefits are often minimal.

The Bottom Line

Garden rhubarb is a reliable, dramatic performer that offers both ornamental and culinary rewards. While it’s not native, it’s not problematic either – think of it as a well-behaved garden guest that’s been around so long it feels like family. Whether you’re drawn to its bold architectural presence or dreaming of homemade strawberry-rhubarb pie, this perennial powerhouse can earn its keep in the right garden setting.

Just remember: give it space, keep it cool and moist, and maybe plant some native companions nearby to keep your local ecosystem happy too!