Rheum palmatum var. tanguticum (ex: Hinkley) – This ornamental Rhubarb is the most imposing and dramatic herbaceous plant we grow. The ball of crinkled foliage emerges bright red becoming coppery as the leaves unfurl. As the foliage expands the bold leaves become green but maintain a radioactive pink-violet color on the undersides of all leaves, more intense at the veins. Each leaf can grow to as broad as 3’ across. The basal foliage can rise to 4’ or 5’ arching out and away from the center of the plant. In summer erect flowering stalks may grow up to 7’, possibly stretching even taller. The buds are red, expand to pink and open white. The large flower sets atop a thick stalk, rather like a big coarse astilbe. Ours is very content in rich moist soil sited in morning sun and afternoon shade. Spring planting in the north may be wise. After flowering the foliage may become decrepit. Cut it down and new fresh flush will emerge and look good for the remainder of the growing season. Division.