Rabarbara
Rheum rhabarbarum
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Description
Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) is a perennial herbaceous plant known for its large, triangular leaves and thick, fleshy petioles (stalks), which are the edible parts of the plant. Native to Asia, it has been cultivated for centuries for both culinary and medicinal purposes. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, rhubarb serves as an excellent ground cover in food forests due to its large leaves that suppress weeds and retain soil moisture. It enhances soil structure and fertility, particularly when used in crop rotation systems. Rhubarb is often included in guilds with nitrogen-fixing plants like clover and dynamic accumulators such as comfrey to enhance soil health. Historically, it has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for its purgative properties. Its robust nature makes it a resilient plant in diverse ecosystems, contributing to biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. Rhubarb is typically found in the herbaceous layer of a food forest, providing shade and organic matter as its leaves decompose.
Growing Details
Rhubarb thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0-7.0). Before planting, enrich the soil with well-rotted manure or compost to enhance fertility. Mulching with organic materials like straw or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as chives and garlic can help deter pests. Avoid harvesting in the first year to allow the plant to establish. Harvest stalks in spring when they reach about 30-45 cm in length. After harvesting,
Tags
Carbon Farming
Erosion Preventing
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Rheum rhabarbarum</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Asia, widely cultivated in temperat
applicable geo region: Temperate regions
language used: sr
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 30 days
Harvest:
middle
of April for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
middle
of April
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(4/5)
edible uses: Rhubarb stalks are commonly used in culinary applications, especially in desserts such as pies, crumbles, and jams. They have a tart flavor that pairs well with sweet ingredients. Rhubarb stalks can be harvested in spring and early summer and are rich in vitamin K and dietary fiber. To prepare, the stalks should be washed and trimmed of any leaves, which are toxic.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Rhubarb is used in traditional medicine for its laxative properties, primarily due to the presence of anthraquinones. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The roots are sometimes used in herbal preparations, but caution is advised due to their potency. Rhubarb should be used in moderation, especially in individuals with kidney issues due to its oxalate content.
health concerns: Rhubarb leaves contain oxalic acid and are toxic if consumed in large quantities. It is important to consume only the stalks. People with kidney problems should consume rhubarb in moderation due to its oxalate content.
other uses:
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Rheum rhabarbarum
common names: Rabarbara; Biljka za pite; Baลกtenska rabarbar
family: Polygonaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Rheum
Growing Conditions
area needed: 1.0 m
spacing: 1.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 20ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 18ยฐC / -10ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(4/10)
first harvest: 2 years
life span: 10 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 1.5 m
max width: 1.5 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Rhubarb thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0-7.0). Before planting, enrich the soil with well-rotted manure or compost to enhance fertility. Mulching with organic materials like straw or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as chives and garlic can help deter pests. Avoid harvesting in the first year to allow the plant to establish. Harvest stalks in spring when they reach about 30-45 cm in length. After harvesting,
Potential Disturbances: Common challenges for rhubarb include slugs, snails, and aphids. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings for aphid management. Planting garlic or chives nearby can offer natural repellence. For slug and snail control, use barriers like crushed eggshells or copper tape, and consider organic options such as diatomaceous earth or beer traps.
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