Rhubarb

rhubarb, (Rheum rhabarbarum), also called pieplant, a hardy perennial of the smartweed family (Polygonaceae) native to Asia and grown for its large edible petioles (leafstalks). Rhubarb is commonly grown in cool areas of the temperate zones. The plant’s fleshy, tart, and highly acidic leafstalks are used in pies, often with strawberries, in compotes and preserves, and sometimes as the base of a wine or an aperitif. The leaves contain toxins, including oxalic acid, and are not eaten.