The Best Rhubarb Plants for Your Garden: A Guide for Gardeners
When it comes to garden rhubarb, there are countless varieties to choose from, each with its unique characteristics and flavors. From the ever-popular Timperley Early, cultivated in Timperley, to the Victoria developed in 1837, gardeners can find the perfect rhubarb plant to suit their conditions and preferences.
Best Rhubarb Cultivars
Unfortunately, some of the best rhubarb plants, like the Timperley, may be difficult to relocate due to personal history. However, you can still enjoy the taste and novelty of different rhubarb varieties in your own garden. Here’s a guide to some of the best rhubarb cultivars:
Cherry Red
Cherry Red is one of the sweetest and least tart varieties available. This hybrid variety features bright red stalks, making it a beautiful addition to any garden. Ideal for those who prefer a sweeter taste, Cherry Red is a must-try for gardeners.
Chipman’s Canada Red
Chipman’s Canada Red, also known as Canadian Red, is the perfect choice for northern gardeners. This extra sweet variety, developed in chilly Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, thrives in cooler climates. It’s an excellent option for gardeners living in colder regions.
Crimson Red
Crimson Red loves damply cool temperatures, making it ideal for gardeners with similar conditions. This variety is known for its deep red stalks and sweet flavor, perfect for those looking for a robust and flavorful rhubarb plant.
German Wine
German Wine is an excellent variety for those interested in making wine or other fermented products. This variety is not only sweet but also one of the best for producing such products. It’s worth noting that this variety’s sugar content makes it perfect for both culinary and homebrewing enthusiasts.
Glaskin’s Perpetual
Glaskin's Perpetual prefers cooler summers if possible. This variety is known for its ability to grow well in cooler climates, making it a great choice for gardeners who want a hardy and reliable rhubarb plant.
Hardy Tarty
Hardy Tarty is a versatile variety that can be harvested from late spring through the entire summer. This makes it a great option for gardeners who want a long harvest season. The plant’s adaptability to different weather conditions ensures a continuous supply of rhubarb throughout the warmer months.
Holstein’s Bloodred
Holstein’s Bloodred is not only a visually stunning plant, growing up to four feet tall and five feet wide, but it also has a classic rhubarb look. Its vibrant red stalks and sturdy growth make it a standout in any garden.
KangaRhu
KangaRhu was developed from Australian rhubarb seeds to produce a cultivar that can withstand hot temperatures! This variety is perfect for gardeners in warmer climates who want to enjoy fresh, juicy rhubarb throughout the growing season.
Prince Albert
Prince Albert is a cultivar with larger and juicier stalks, providing a perfect blend of tartness and sweetness. Some even claim that this variety has the best flavor of all the cultivars. For those seeking the finest taste, Prince Albert is an excellent choice.
Riverside Giant
Riverside Giant is a green-stalked cultivar that is one of the cold-hardiest varieties available. It’s also the slowest to grow, requiring three years before the first harvest. However, its sturdiness and reliability make it a worthwhile investment for gardeners who prioritize durability and reliability.
Sunrise
Sunrise is an ideal variety for those who love to store rhubarb. Its extra-sturdy thick pink stalks are less prone to turning mushy and gross, even after sitting in the freezer for three months. This makes it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to enjoy fresh rhubarb during the off-season.
Timperley Early
Timperley Early is known for its pinkish stalks and deliciously sweet-tart flavor. Some even call it the best-tasting rhubarb variety of all. This early-ripening variety is perfect for those who want a head start on their harvest season.
Victoria
Victoria is one of the most popular rhubarb varieties in the world, mainly because it was the first variety ever to be used in cooking. Developed in 1837 at the start of Queen Victoria’s reign, this variety pioneered the use of rhubarb in British and American cuisine. Even today, it remains the most widely available variety, making it a beloved staple for many gardeners.
Conclusion
No matter your climate or taste preferences, there is a rhubarb variety that is perfect for your garden. Whether you prefer a sweet, tart, or uniquely flavored plant, the best rhubarb plants are a delightful addition to any garden. Choose the variety that best suits your needs and enjoy the benefits of having a thriving rhubarb plant in your outdoor space.