Rheum

Ornamental rhubarb. Among the most statuesque and handsome foliage plants for creating a grand, lush atmosphere, even if space is limited. Preferring good retentive soils, shelter from strong winds, in light shade or some sun (but not scorching). At their best in spring, where the foliage, often crimson-purple tinted is at its most intense. Around 50 species, mainly in Asia. The edible rhubarb, long cultivated, is a complex hybrid

The flowers of rhubarbs are mostly insect-pollinated, and a wide range of visitors has been recorded, from bumblebees to thrips. And while the seed heads may start to look untidy, try leaving them until the finches have eaten the seeds. Despite the presence of toxic chemicals such as oxalic acid in the leaves, they are eaten by the caterpillars of many generalist moth larvae.