Classification
Class
Magnoliopsida Brongn.
Order
Caryophyllales Juss. ex Bercht. & J.Presl
Family
Polygonaceae
 Subordinate Taxa
 Nomenclature
Scientific Name:
Rheum L., Sp. Pl. 371 (1753)
Vernacular Name(s):
Rhubarb
 Description

Stout perennial herbs forming large clumps; rhizomes ± woody. Lvs mainly radical, large, ovate to reniform, ± cordate, palmately veined; ochreae prominent and loose. Fls in large diffuse panicles, ☿, green, whitish or red. Perianth segments 6, free, equal, not accrescent, not keeled. Stamens (6)–9. Styles 3, very short; stigmas capitate. Fr. a trigonous nut, strongly 3-winged, lacking spines.

[From: Webb et al. (1988) Flora of New Zealand. Volume 4.]

 Biostatus
Exotic
Number of species and named hybrids in New Zealand within Rheum L.
CategoryNumber
Exotic: Fully Naturalised1
Total1
 Bibliography
Linnaeus, C. 1753: Species Plantarum. Impensis Laurentii Salvii, Stockholm.
Mabberley, D.J. 2008: Mabberley's plant book, a portable dictionary of plants, their classification and uses. Edition 3. Cambridge University Press.
Stewart, J. 1971: Plants in New Zealand Poisonous to Man. New Zealand Department of Health, Wellington.