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Description
Rheum Hybridum Canada Red, also known as Canadian Red Rhubarb or Victoria Rhubarb, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Polygonaceae. This plant is cultivated for its edible stalks, which are commonly used in pies, jams, and other desserts. It is a hybrid between Rheum rhabarbarum and Rheum rhaponticum, and was first introduced in Canada in the 1940s. The plant can grow up to 2 meters in height and has large, triangular-shaped leaves that are green in color. The stalks are thick and red in color, and have a tart flavor.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Rheum |
Appearance
Rheum Hybridum Canada Red has large, triangular-shaped leaves that can grow up to 60 cm in diameter. The leaves are green in color and have a slightly rough texture. The stalks are thick and red in color, and can grow up to 60 cm in length. The flowers of this plant are small and green, and are arranged in clusters on a tall stem that can grow up to 2 meters in height. The plant has a clumping habit and can spread up to 1 meter in diameter.
Care Guide
Rheum Hybridum Canada Red is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water regularly to keep the soil moist.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to encourage growth.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun, but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rheum Hybridum Canada Red is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to crown rot, which is caused by a fungal infection. To prevent crown rot, avoid overwatering and make sure the soil is well-draining. The plant can also be affected by aphids, which can be controlled by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap.
Habitat
Rheum Hybridum Canada Red is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. It grows best in cool, temperate climates and prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate frost and is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Rheum Hybridum Canada Red in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow this plant in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Rheum Hybridum Canada Red?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and again in midsummer.
Q: How often should I water Rheum Hybridum Canada Red?
A: Water regularly to keep the soil moist, but avoid overwatering.
Q: How do I harvest Rheum Hybridum Canada Red?
A: Harvest the stalks when they are at least 30 cm long by pulling them gently from the base of the plant.
Related Plants
– Rheum rhabarbarum- Rheum rhaponticum- Rheum palmatum- Rheum officinale
References
– “Rheum Hybridum Canada Red.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 June 2021. – “Rheum Hybridum Canada Red.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 15 June 2021. – “Rheum Hybridum Canada Red.” University of Illinois Extension. Accessed 15 June 2021.
