Spinach Rhubarb
Rumex abyssinicusfam. Polygonaceae
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Pl. A1E1 — Rumex abyssinicus
Rumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicusRumex abyssinicus
IOverview
Overview
Spinach Rhubarb, scientifically known as Rumex abyssinicus, is a perennial plant 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, often growing up to 3 meters tall. It is both edible and medicinal, with its leaves being the primary part used for consumption. The plant has a moderate water requirement and prefers a slightly alkaline soil pH between 7 and 7.5. Its distinctive features include its ability to grow in various soil conditions and its dual use as both food and medicine.
Quick answers
What is Spinach Rhubarb?
Spinach Rhubarb, scientifically known as Rumex abyssinicus, is a perennial plant 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, often growing up to 3 meters tall.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Digestive Harmony
digestiontincture
Traditional use for digestive issues.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
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
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, a garden fork, compost, and water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when soil is moist but not wet.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with partial shade. Amend heavy or clay soils with sand and compost for better drainage.
- 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
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize with compost every 4-6 weeks for healthy growth.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune old leaves as they yellow to encourage new leaf production and maintain plant vigor.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, neglecting regular fertilization, and not removing old leaves.
VIEdible & utility
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
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
17 native · 3 introduced
Distribution
17 native · 3 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 17 native· 3 introduced
Africa16 regions
native (15)BurundiCameroonEritreaEthiopiaGabonKenyaMadagascarMalawiMozambiqueNigeriaRwandaSudanTanzaniaUgandaZambia
introduced (1)Angola
Broader regions
native:Zaïre, Gulf of Guinea Is.
introduced:Central African Repu, Réunion
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Polygonaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Polygonaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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