Sikkim rhubarb, Indian rhubarb
Rheum nobile
Family: Polygonaceae
What it is like
A herb. It grows to about 1.5 m high. It is densely covered with bracts which are pale and bend backwards. The leaves have stalks. The leaves are about 30 cm long and wide. They are oval or round. The base can be heart-shaped. The flowers are cream. These are hidden by the bracts. The fruit is dry and oval.
Where it is found
A subtropical plant. In Nepal it grows between 3900-4300 m altitude. It often grows amongst rocks.
Countries/locations it is found in
Afghanistan, Asia, Bhutan, China, Himalayas (country/location of origin), India, Myanmar, Nepal, Northeastern India, Pakistan, SE Asia, Sikkim, Tibet
How it is used for food
The leaf stalks are peeled then eaten raw or pickled. The young flowering stalks are cooked and eaten.
Edible parts
Leaf stalks, stems, flowering shoots
How it is grown
Plants are grown by seeds or root offshoots.
Its other names
Local names
Chhulama, Chuka, Chu-kha-me, Chulthi amilo, Kalar-chinbaung, jo, KenPadamchal, Qu ga, Tchuka, Tohuka