Chinese rhubarb Rheum palmatum 'Bowles's Crimson'
ABOUT
Rheum palmatum 'Bowles's Crimson', commonly known as ornamental rhubarb, is a striking plant predominantly grown for its decorative features. It boasts large, bold foliage that is deeply lobed and can often present a reddish-purple hue, especially on the undersides, giving it a dramatic and colorful display. The leaves emerge in a mound and are held aloft on sturdy stalks, contributing to the impressive visual structure of the plant. During its blooming period, ornamental rhubarb sends up towering flower stalks topped with abundant small flowers, which may range in color from reddish to pink. These flowers are often arranged in large, spreading panicles, catching the eye from a distance and adding a vertical accent to the garden. The overall impression of 'Bowles's Crimson' is one of lush, architectural grandeur with its combination of richly colored foliage and striking floral displays.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Polygonaceae.
Synonyms
Turkish Rhubarb, Ornamental Rhubarb, Chinese Rhubarb.
Common names
Rheum officinale Baill., Rheum palmatum var. tanguticum Maxim.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name of Rheum palmatum 'Bowles's Crimson' is ornamental rhubarb. The leaves of the ornamental rhubarb plant are toxic to humans if ingested, due to the presence of oxalic acid and possibly anthraquinone glycosides. The stalks of some rhubarb varieties are commonly eaten, but it is always safest to avoid consuming any part of ornamental varieties due to their higher concentration of toxic substances. Symptoms of poisoning can include a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, difficulty breathing, gastrointestinal upset, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to kidney failure or other serious complications due to the oxalic acid binding with calcium in the body to form crystals, which can damage the kidneys.
To pets
Ornamental rhubarb is also toxic to pets due to the presence of oxalic acid and possibly anthraquinone glycosides in the leaves. If a pet ingests parts of the ornamental rhubarb plant, they can experience symptoms such as drooling, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, the same risks apply to pets as they do to humans: the oxalic acid can cause kidney damage due to the formation of calcium oxalate crystals, potentially leading to acute kidney failure. It's important to prevent pets from accessing and ingesting any part of the ornamental rhubarb plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
6 feet [1.8 meters]
Spread
3 feet [0.9 meters]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant red color to gardens with its crimson leaves and striking tall flowers.
- Pollinator Attraction: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects with its flowers.
Medical Properties- Laxative effects: The root and rhizome of Rheum palmatum, commonly known as Chinese rhubarb, are traditionally used to relieve constipation due to their anthraquinone content.
- Antimicrobial action: Extracts of the plant have been studied for their potential antibacterial properties against various strains of bacteria.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The root of Chinese rhubarb may help to reduce inflammation and has been used in traditional medicine for this purpose.
- Gastrointestinal health: It has been used historically to treat digestive issues, including diarrhoea and dysentery, due to its astringent effects.
- Liver protection: In traditional Chinese medicine, the rhizome is considered to have hepatoprotective effects and has been used to improve liver function.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Rheum palmatum, commonly known as Turkish rhubarb, can be used as a natural dye due to its strong pigmentation, which can impart rich hues to fabrics or paper.
- The large, ornamental leaves of Turkish rhubarb can be used in floral arrangements or as a natural backdrop for photographing smaller plants and flowers.
- Due to its robust size, Turkish rhubarb can be planted as a privacy screen in gardens, providing a living barrier that changes with the seasons.
- The stalks of Turkish rhubarb can be hollowed out and used as natural, biodegradable straws for sipping cold beverages.
- When dried and treated, the large leaves of Turkish rhubarb can be crafted into eco-friendly plates or serving dishes for outdoor dining.
- The bold red stems of Turkish rhubarb can be used in craft projects, such as homemade wreaths or as decorative accents in artisanal basketry.
- Turkish rhubarb can be incorporated into a compost pile to add bulk and nutrients, particularly its large leaves which decompose readily.
- The plant can serve as a teaching tool in educational gardens, illustrating the life cycle of perennials or the structure of a large leafed plant.
- During colder months, the dried seed heads of Turkish rhubarb can provide visual interest in the garden, with their distinctive shape adding texture to a winter landscape.
- The stems of Turkish rhubarb can be used as natural stakes for supporting other plants in the garden, aiding in growth and stability.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chinese rhubarb is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chinese rhubarb is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Rheum palmatum, commonly known as Chinese rhubarb, has been used in traditional medicine, especially in Chinese culture, symbolizing healing and medicinal properties.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, the robust growth and large leaves of the Chinese rhubarb represent prosperity and abundance.
- Growth: The vigorous nature of Chinese rhubarb's growth is often seen as a symbol of personal or spiritual growth.
- Cleansing: The purgative properties of Chinese rhubarb have historically made it a symbol of cleansing and detoxification.
- Rarity: The 'Bowles's Crimson' variety, with its striking red stems, can symbolize uniqueness or rarity.
WaterThe Chinese rhubarb, or Rheum palmatum 'Bowles's Crimson', requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. It's best to water deeply once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water for each plant, depending on the size and the soil moisture levels. Avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf spot diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant. In hotter climates or during unusually dry periods, increase the frequency to twice a week, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in the winter when the plant is dormant.
LightChinese rhubarb prefers a sunny to partly shaded location. Ideally, provide it with full morning sun and some afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates, to protect it from the intense heat, which can scorch its leaves. A spot that receives 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day is perfect for promoting healthy growth and vibrant leaf color.
TemperatureChinese rhubarb thrives in temperatures between 50°F and 75°F. It can withstand colder temperatures down to about -20°F once established, making it suitable for gardens with harsh winters. The ideal conditions for the plant are mild temperatures and cool nights. It may struggle in temperatures consistently above 80°F, especially if night temperatures do not drop significantly.
PruningPrune the Chinese rhubarb in late fall or early winter after the plant has died back, removing any dead or damaged stalks to prevent disease and encourage healthy growth in the spring. It's not necessary to prune aggressively; focus on clearing away the old plant material. Additionally, deadhead spent flower stalks during the summer to direct more energy to foliage growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor 'Bowles's Crimson' rhubarb, a rich, well-draining soil mix is ideal. Incorporate generous amounts of organic matter like compost to nourish the soil and ensure good drainage. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is optimal for this rhubarb variety.
Repotting'Bowles's Crimson' rhubarb is a perennial and does not need frequent repotting. It is typically repotted or divided every 4 to 5 years in the spring to maintain vigour and prevent overcrowding.
Humidity & Misting'Bowles's Crimson' rhubarb prefers average humidity levels. Since it is generally an outdoor plant, it thrives in the natural humidity provided by the environment and does not require specific humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light and cool temperatures for indoor 'Bowles's Crimson' rhubarb.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade in well-draining soil for outdoor 'Bowles's Crimson' rhubarb.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleRheum palmatum 'Bowles's Crimson', commonly known as ornamental rhubarb or Turkish rhubarb, initiates its life cycle when seeds are sown in the soil, typically requiring a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. Upon germination in early spring, seedlings establish a rosette of large, deeply lobed, crimson-tinged leaves, and as the plant matures, it develops a deep taproot system. In subsequent years, the perennial nature of ornamental rhubarb becomes apparent as it emerges from dormancy each spring, growing larger and forming a more robust clump. After a few years of growth, in late spring to early summer, it produces tall, dramatic flower spikes with small reddish or pink flowers that are attractive to pollinators. Following pollination, flowers develop into winged fruits that disperse seeds for the next generation. The plant then enters a period of senescence in late summer and autumn, with foliage dying back to the ground after the first frosts, entering a dormant phase through winter until the cycle restarts the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Rheum palmatum 'Bowles's Crimson', commonly known as ornamental rhubarb, can be propagated through division, which is the most popular method for this perennial plant. Division should be carried out in the early spring or fall when the plant is dormant. To propagate by division, carefully lift the entire plant out of the ground with a spade, preserving as much of the root system as possible. Using a sharp knife or spade, divide the plant into sections, ensuring each section has at least one growth bud. Replant the divisions promptly at the same depth they were growing at previously, spacing them about 2 to 3 feet (approximately 60 to 90 centimeters) apart to allow ample room for growth. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly and continue to provide care as they establish.
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