LET’S STALK RHUBARB

JUST AS TOMATO IS A FRUIT USED AS A VEGETABLE, RHUBARB IS A VEGETABLE COMMONLY CONSUMED AS A DESSERT

Words Steve McGrane

One of my favourite childhood memories is Sunday night pie made with rhubarb straight from the garden. While we may think this plant has a European origin, it actually came from Asia over 5000 years ago and then found its way to the Middle East and on to the Roman Empire. The Chinese long recognised its medicinal value. These days, it’s said to contribute to lowering LDLs (so-called “bad” cholesterol), reversing artery wall damage and helping to prevent heart attacks while cleaning the blood. With its unique set of minerals, it has many other health applications, from alleviating diarrhoea to inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. But, above all, it’s a delicious treat. From the genus Rheum in the family Polygonaceae, this herbaceous perennial grows from short, thick rhizomes and does best in cool…

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Good Organic Gardening (Digital) - 1 Issue, Issue #12.5 - 2021

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