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Spinach Rhubarb

Rumex abyssinicusfam. Polygonaceae
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Rumex abyssinicus (Spinach Rhubarb) — botanical photograph
Pl. A1E1 — Rumex abyssinicus
Rumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicus
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Overview

Spinach Rhubarb, scientifically known as Rumex abyssinicus, is a perennial plant belonging to the Polygonaceae family. Native to regions including Burundi, Cameroon, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Kenya, Madagascar, and other parts of East Africa, this plant thrives in moist environments with light to medium soil types. It can grow up to 3 meters tall and prefers a slightly alkaline soil pH between 7 and 7.5. Spinach Rhubarb is both edible and medicinal, with its leaves being the primary part used for consumption. The leaves can be eaten fresh or lightly cooked, providing a nutritious addition to local cuisine. This plant is native to several African countries, including Angola, Central African Republic, and Réunion, where it has been introduced. Its ability to grow in various soil conditions and its dual use as both food and medicine make it a valuable resource in its native regions. While the plant is safe for consumption, it is important to note that its medicinal properties and specific uses should be researched further before any treatment or consumption.

Quick answers

What is Spinach Rhubarb?

Spinach Rhubarb, scientifically known as Rumex abyssinicus, is a perennial plant belonging to the Polygonaceae family. Native to regions including Burundi, Cameroon, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Kenya, Madagascar, and other parts of East Africa, this plant thrives in moist environments with light to medium soil types.

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Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Spinach Rhubarb thrives in moist conditions and prefers light to heavy soils with a pH of 7-7.5. It is a perennial that can grow up to 3 meters tall and requires full sun to partial shade. For cultivation, use well-draining soil but ensure it remains consistently moist. Propagate through seeds or division. This plant is hardy in temperate regions and is native to several African countries. Harvest its edible leaves throughout the growing season.
Light
8/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
3.0 m tall
Soil pH
7–7.5
For first-time growers

How to grow Spinach Rhubarb for the first time

8steps

Start with basic soil preparation and regular watering for a successful Spinach Rhubarb planting.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or young plants, a garden fork, compost, and water.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost, when soil is moist but not wet.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a location with partial shade. Amend heavy or clay soils with sand and compost for better drainage.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep, spaced 30-45 cm apart in rows 60 cm apart. Alternatively, transplant young plants from a nursery.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep the soil consistently moist and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize with compost every 4-6 weeks for healthy growth.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune old leaves as they yellow to encourage new leaf production and maintain plant vigor.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in full sun, neglecting regular fertilization, and not removing old leaves.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Spinach Rhubarb (Rumex abyssinicus) are edible and can be prepared in various ways. They are often eaten fresh, either raw or lightly cooked, to retain their moisture content. The plant is native to regions like Burundi and Ethiopia, where its leaves provide a nutritious addition to local cuisine.
Other uses:Dye
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Distribution

17 native · 3 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 17 native· 3 introduced
Africa16 regions
native (15)BurundiCameroonEritreaEthiopiaGabonKenyaMadagascarMalawiMozambiqueNigeriaRwandaSudanTanzaniaUgandaZambia
introduced (1)Angola
Broader regions
native:Gulf of Guinea Is., Zaïre
introduced:Central African Repu, Réunion
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Rumex abyssinicus (Spinach Rhubarb) — botanical photograph
Spinach Rhubarb (Rumex abyssinicus)
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See also

8 related
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Explore further

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