Rhubarb - Red Champagne (Pack of 1 Crown)

Rhubarb - Red Champagne (Pack of 1 Crown) Rhuem x hybridum (NOT to WA, TAS) Rhubarb Red Champagne is a classic red-stalked rhubarb type grown for its tart flavour, attractive stems and excellent kitchen use. Supplied as a pack of 1 crown, it is ideal for gardeners wanting to establish a productive rhubarb patch from a mature root division rather than seed. This variety produces firm stalks that can be cooked into pies, crumbles, sauces, jams, stewed fruit and preserves. Stalk colour may vary from red to reddish-green depending on climate, season, maturity and growing conditions. Rhubarb performs best in cool to temperate Australian gardens, where the crown can enjoy a winter rest and push strong new growth in spring. Plant it in rich, well-drained soil with compost added, keep it evenly moist during active growth, and avoid harvesting heavily while the crown is young. Only the stalks are edible. The leaves must not be eaten. Product Highlights Pack of 1 rhubarb crown Red-stalked rhubarb type with a tart, traditional flavour Suitable for pies, crumbles, jams, sauces and stewed fruit Long-lived perennial in suitable cool and temperate climates Best grown in fertile, well-drained soil with steady moisture Allow the crown to establish before heavy harvesting Leaves are not edible and must be removed before use Growing Guide Plant rhubarb in full sun to light shade. In warmer districts, choose morning sun with afternoon protection. Prepare the soil deeply before planting. Mix through compost or well-rotted manure and make sure the site drains well. Rhubarb likes moisture during active growth, but wet, heavy soil can lead to crown rot. Plant the crown with the buds close to soil level. Water in well after planting. Keep the soil evenly moist while the plant establishes. Mulch around the plant to help conserve moisture, but keep mulch clear of the crown itself. Climate Suitability Cool and Alpine: Best suited. Plant during dormancy or early spring. Temperate: Suitable. Provide fertile soil, regular moisture and protection from harsh summer heat where needed. Subtropical: Possible with care in cooler local areas. Choose afternoon shade and avoid hot, exposed positions. Tropical and Arid: Not recommended as a reliable long-term perennial crop. Harvesting Do not overharvest in the first season. Let the crown build strength. Once established, harvest firm stalks by pulling and gently twisting them from the base. Do not remove all stalks at once. Leave enough growth so the plant can continue feeding the crown. Remove and discard the leaves straight after harvesting. Use the stalks only. Toxicity and Warning Rhubarb leaves are not edible and must not be eaten by people, pets or livestock. The edible part is the stalk only. Keep leaves away from children and animals, and discard them after harvesting.