Rhubarb

Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) is a hardy perennial vegetable grown for its tart, edible leaf stalks. Its broad leaves form a substantial clump, so give it a permanent sunny site where it will not crowd paths or smaller crops. [University of Minnesota Extension](https://extension.umn.edu/garden-and-home/yard-and-garden/gardening-in-minnesota/growing-rhubarb) ## Landscape use Plant rhubarb in a kitchen garden or at the edge of a vegetable bed, leaving room for its full canopy. The stalks are used in cooked dishes; the leaves are not eaten. ## Growing conditions Choose a sunny position with fertile, organic-rich, well-drained soil. Add compost before planting and water during dry periods, especially while the plant is establishing. ## Maintenance Remove flower stalks if they appear, and begin harvesting lightly only after the plant is established. Cut stalks at the base and discard the leaves; do not use rhubarb foliage as food.