Rhubarb 'Canada Red' is a hardy, long-lived perennial vegetable grown primarily for its edible stalks. It features large, broad, deep green leaves with a crinkled texture and thick, succulent, red stalks that are sweeter and more tender than other rhubarb varieties. The plant produces a rosette of foliage emerging from a central crown, with stalks reaching upwards before arching slightly. In early summer, mature plants may send up tall flower stalks with clusters of small, white to greenish-yellow flowers, though these are typically removed to encourage leaf and stalk growth.
- Size: Height: 2 to 3 feet (60-90 cm). Spread: 3 to 4 feet (90-120 cm). Stalk length: 12 to 18 inches (30-45 cm)
- Sunlight: Prefers full sun for optimal stalk development.
- Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter; pH between 6.0-6.8.
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; mulch to retain moisture.
- Fertilization: Apply compost or a balanced fertilizer in early spring and after harvest.
- Pruning: Remove flower stalks as they appear to direct energy into stalk production.
- Harvesting: Begin harvesting in the second year; pick stalks by pulling or cutting at the base, leaving at least two-thirds of the plant intact.
- Winter Care: Cut back foliage after frost; apply mulch to protect crowns in colder climates.
- Pests/Diseases: Generally hardy but may be susceptible to crown rot and leaf spot if conditions are too wet.