Rhubarb, Rhubarb

[Rosemary]

Is rhubarb really a vegetable or is it fruit? My friend tells me not to pick any more rhubarb sticks as it's the wrong time of the year. Why can't I as the plant still looks good.

[davetherave2]

Hi- If i remember its classification is really a fruit. Somebody is going to correct me now I know it!

Your friend is right about not picking anymore after July, because the crowns need to 'seal' up and die down naturally (my Dad told me that part so he may be wrong!)

Remove any flowering stalks though.

Btw (by the way) I hold an NVQ in commercial hort, I forgot to say that in my welcome speech!!

[green fingers]

Found this on a website.


Rhubarb is a vegetable with a unique taste that makes it a favorite in many pies and desserts. It originated in Asia over 2,000 years ago. It was initially cultivated for its medicinal qualities, it was not until the 18th century that rhubarb was grown for culinary purposes in Britain and America. Rhubarb is often commonly mistaken to be a fruit but rhubarb is actually a close relative of garden sorrel, and is therefore a member of the vegetable family. Rhubarb is rich in vitamin C and dietary fiber.

[Lesley Jay]

Originally Posted by davetherave2

Your friend is right about not picking anymore after July, because the crowns need to 'seal' up and die down naturally (my Dad told me that part so he may be wrong!)

The other reason is that the rhubarb leaves are poisonous, containing oxalic acid and as the season progresses the oxalic acid travels down the stalks so it's best not to eat it after July.

The difference between fruit and vegetables is that fruit carries seeds inside the fruit so tomatoes, cucumber, courgettes and squashes are all technically fruits.