Species rhubarb
Green leaves with maroon petiole and yellow veins.

rhubarb

Rheum hybridum 'Starkrimson'

Rhubarb (Rheum hybridum 'Starkrimson') is a perennial plant with thick, fleshy petioles - the leaf stalks - that are edible and commonly used in pies and jams. It has large, green leaves and striking purplish-red stalks. Rhubarb is an easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in cold climates and requires little water and full sun. Once established, it should be fertilized with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to encourage strong growth and maximum yields. Rhubarb is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making it a great addition to your garden!

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Crown Division

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

burgundy

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Rhubarb (Rheum hybridum 'Starkrimson') prefers moist soil but should not be over watered. It is best to water when the top few inches of the soil are dry. Water rhubarb deeply and thoroughly about once a week. During warmer temperatures, it may require a bit more frequent watering, but unless your plant is displaying signs of wilt or extreme heat stress, weekly watering should be adequate.

sunlight

Rhubarb (Rheum hybridum ‘Starkrimson’) requires at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight every day to grow properly. Varieties of rhubarb can tolerate partial shade, but they usually perform best in full sun. Rhubarb prefers the cooler temperatures of spring and fall, allowing the plant to harden off and prepare for winter. While rhubarb will survive winter temperatures, direct sunlight during the cold winter months can lead to stunted growth in the spring.

pruning

Rhubarb (Rheum hybridum 'Starkrimson') should be pruned back to its crown in early spring, just before the new growth begins. After pruning, remove any dead or damaged leaves and any stems that are more than 2 years old. This will help keep the plant healthy and vigorous. To increase yield and promote healthy growth it can be pruned once or twice more during the growing season. During the summer, the tops of the stems can be cut back, leaving about 2 feet of height to help limit the spread of the plant and keep it from getting too large. At the end of the season, cut any remaining stems down to the crown for winter protection.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Rhubarb typically starts flowering in April or May.

Hardiness Map