Rheum palmatum

Rheum palmatum, Tibetan or Chinese Rhubarb is a spectacular and large-leaved rhubarb from the high plateaus of Tibet and across China to Vietnam. Its huge architectural foliage emerges rapidly from winter dormancy in late March to early April and by early summer is enormous, the dramatic palmate leaves elegantly divided into jagged-edged pinnatisect lobes. The upper abaxial surfaces are covered in short soft downy hairs and the lower adaxial surfaces often have a purplish tinge to them. Mature specimens give rise to a towering inflorescence, either dark red or occasionally creamy-yellow and the tiny flowers are followed by small oblong-ellipsoid fruits with characteristic longitudinal wings turning reddish-purple as the seed develops.

Rheum palmatum is a giant amongst the Rheums and forms a large clump that creates a stunning and exotic statement in a foliage-orientated jungle garden. Do not choose this plant if you don't have sufficient room for it to grow. Although not as gargantuan as Gunnera manicata it will soon look out-of-place in a pocket handkerchief back garden. A better choice in a small garden is Rheum 'Ace of Hearts'.