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Description
Rheum Altaicum, also known as Altai rhubarb, is a perennial plant native to the Altai Mountains of Central Asia. It belongs to the family Polygonaceae, which includes other popular rhubarb species like Rheum Rhabarbarum. Rheum Altaicum is known for its large, edible leaves, which are commonly used in traditional medicine in the regions where it grows.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Rheum |
Appearance
Rheum Altaicum typically grows up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide. It has large, heart-shaped leaves that can reach up to 2 feet in length and 1.5 feet in width. The leaves are usually green or reddish-green in color and have a slightly rough texture. The plant produces small, greenish-white flowers in the summer, but they are not very showy. The stems of the plant are thick and strong, able to support the weight of the large leaves.
Care Guide
Rheum Altaicum is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growing conditions. Here are some care tips to help your plant thrive:
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Rheum Altaicum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend heavy clay soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade, but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Rheum Altaicum is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rheum Altaicum is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, here are some issues you may encounter:
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
- Aphids: These small insects can suck sap from the leaves, causing them to wilt. Treat with insecticidal soap.
- Slugs and Snails: These pests can chew on the leaves and leave slime trails. Use slug bait to control them.
Habitat
Rheum Altaicum is native to the Altai Mountains of Central Asia, where it grows in rocky, mountainous areas. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate cold, harsh winters. The plant is also found in other regions of Asia, including China and Mongolia.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Rheum Altaicum in a container?
A: Yes, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s large leaves and strong stems. Use a well-draining potting mix and fertilize regularly.
Q: Can I eat the leaves of Rheum Altaicum?
A: Yes, the leaves are edible and are commonly used in traditional medicine in the regions where the plant grows.
Q: How often should I water Rheum Altaicum?
A: Water deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather.
Q: Does Rheum Altaicum attract wildlife?
A: The plant is not known to be a major attractor of wildlife, but it may provide habitat for small insects and other creatures.
Related Plants
- Rheum Palmatum
- Rheum Rhabarbarum
- Rheum Tanguticum
- Rheum Undulatum
References
- “Rheum altaicum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=285474
- “Rheum altaicum.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed October 15, 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60432289-2
- “Rheum altaicum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed October 15, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/15791/rheum-altaicum/details
