Ornamental Rhubarb

A big impact plant with gloriously gigantic foliage to add structure and flair. In early spring, the new foliage emerges, unfurling in a range of impossibly rich reds. These colourful leaves grow to an impressive 90cm across and just over a metre tall, with deep flushes of red, copper and purple that is retained on their reverse. As the leaves mature, the upper face gradually deepens to green. And just when you thought it was done, huge magenta pink to russet red plumes rise up on scarlet stems of 2m to join the show. Both the flowers and the foliage are a stand out in the garden and in floral arrangements.

This impressive foliage plant has large, jagged leaves from a central crown, similar in form to how regular rhubarb grows but with an architectural edge. As the plants mature, the leaves become even more deeply divided.

If the flowers are pollinated they can be followed by ornamental, glossy red seeds for the birds and you to enjoy.

They thrive where ferns, Hostas and other shady characters lie. They need a deep, humus rich soil with regular watering – they have a lot of foliage and flowers to produce and a large rootstock. Clay soils are also enjoyed. A part shade or morning sun position with protection from the hot afternoon sun is ideal, too much sun and you will lose the foliage colour. They need good space and should be protected from slugs and snails who find them delicious. If the foliage becomes lacklustre mid summer, prune it out and add some high nitrogen fertiliser, water well and it will shoot again.

It is ornamental rather than edible. Common names for Rheum palmatum var. tanguiticum include Ornamental Rhubarb, Chinese Rhubarb, Palmate Rhubarb and Turkey Rhubarb.