Rheum palmatum var. tanguticum

Flowers: May-July.  Plant in sun or part shade.  HxS 2.5mx2.5m

A handsome and architectural damp lover for a pond or stream side.  The large jagged leaves covering up to 2.5m (8ft) spread, are deep green, tinted rich purple underneath.  The stalks are red but are not really edible!  The hermaphrodite flowers are pinky-white, opening from tight pink buds, and are wind pollinated.  This plant requires a moist, but not wet, site and is tolerant of heavy soils, including clay.  Please order early or late in the season as plants grow very large in the summer and have to be cut back to transport.

Care & Maintenance.

Plant the crown slightly proud of the ground (as you find it in the pot) so that it is not immersed in water throughout the winter.  Leaves are best cleared away in autumn.  Propagate by seed or division of the crown.