Rheum officinale (Polygonaceae)

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Rheum officinale
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The Rheum officinale plant species is found in E. Asia - Tibet. It is a member of the Polygonaceae family.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Rheum officinale
Family:  Polygonaceae
Author:  Baill.

Known Hazards:  Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, the leaves of some if not all members of this genus contain significant quantities of oxalic acid and should not be eaten in any quantity. Oxalic acid can lock up certain minerals in the body, especially calcium, leading to nutritional deficiency. The content of oxalic acid will be reduced if the plant is cooked. People with a tendency to rheumatism, arthritis, gout, kidney stones or hyperacidity should take especial caution if including this plant in their diet since it can aggravate their condition[238].

Mature Height:  2   Mature Width:  1.5

Habitat:  Not known

Cultivation Notes: Prefers a deep, fertile, moderately heavy, humus rich, moisture retentive, well-drained soil in sun or semi-shade[200]. Grows well in heavy clay soils. Plants can be grown in quite coarse grass, which can be cut annually in the autumn[233]. Hardy to about -20°c[200]. A very ornamental plant[1], it is closely related to R. australe[200]. Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus[200]. Cultivated as a medicinal plant in China[61]. Plants at the Cambribge Botanic Gardens in September 1993 were growing well in the shade of a woodland garden, though they were not succeeding when planted closely to the trees[K]. Plants in this genus seem to be immune to the predations of rabbits[233].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

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