Rheum alexandrae
Alexander's rhubarb
A rhizomatous perennial with large, glossy, dark green leaves with heart-shaped bases and prominent veins. In early summer produces drooping sprays up to 60cm long of tiny, star-shaped, yellow-green flowers which are almost covered by hanging, creamy bracts 10cm or more long
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Cream Green Yellow | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Polygonaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Potentially harmful
- Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
- Genus
Rheum are robust rhizomatous herbaceous perennials with large, simple or palmately lobed leaves and tall leafy stems bearing large panicles of tiny flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- SW China
How to grow
Cultivation
Prefers deep, humus-rich, permanently moist soil in full sun. Benefits from mulching with organic matter in spring
Propagation
Propagate by division in early spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Cottage and informal garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Deadhead spent flower spikes
Pests
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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