Rhubarb

Rheum × hybridum

Long-lived perennial grown for tart pink to red leaf stalks. Needs a true cold dormancy to crop reliably.

Hardiness ratings

Rhubarb hardiness across the four zone systems
SystemRatingTemperature rangeHow to read it
USDA hardiness zone Zone 3–8 −40 °C to −6.7 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone
RHS hardiness rating H7 down to −20 °C Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance
Canadian plant hardiness zone Zone 3–8 −34 °C to −1 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone
Australian (ANBG) zone Zone 1–4 −15 °C to 5 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone

Growing notes

  • Leaves contain oxalic acid in toxic concentrations — eat only the stalks
  • Struggles in subtropical climates without enough winter chill

Pet caution: Rhubarb is listed as potentially harmful to cats and/or dogs. Keep pets from grazing on it, and contact a vet if you suspect your animal has eaten some.

Categories

Related plants

Cross-check Rhubarb against your zones

Reference

Rhubarb on Wikipedia