Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Polygonaceae

Genus:

Rheum

Species:

Rheum rhabarbarum

USDA Symbol:

RHRH2

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb

Height:

120 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Low

Bloom Months:

may,jun,jul

Bloom Colors:

white, cream, greenish

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

bees, flies

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rich, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

prefers fertile soil with organic matter

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 30–90 days

Germination Time:

7–21 days

Notes:

Seeds germinate best at cool temperatures (50-60°F). Light may improve germination rates.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI