Back to Plants library
Rhubarb

Rhubarb

Garden Rhubarb, Pie Plant, Wine Plant

Hardy perennial for zones 3–8. Do not harvest stalks at all in year 1; harvest lightly in year 2. From year 3, harvest by pulling/twisting stalks rather than cutting, and leave at least 2/3 of the plant's stalks. Caution: leaves are toxic (high oxalic acid) — harvest stalks only. Needs winter cold for dormancy; does not thrive in warm climates. Divide crowns every 5–8 years. Mulch generously in winter.

Light

Full sun

Water

Medium water

Temperature

-30–27 °C

Frost tolerance

Frost-hardy — tolerates frost

Days to maturity

365–730 days

Companion plants
StrawberryOnionGarlic
Watch for pests
SlugAphidsRhubarb Curculio
Disease risk
Crown RotLeaf SpotBotrytis

Want Tomatograph to track rhubarb for you — frost alerts, weekly reviews, and care logging included? Browse the full library or get started free.