Rhubarb is a popular garden plant, known for its tangy, tart stalks used in everything from pies to jams. However, what about the flower stems that appear as the plant matures? While the stalks of rhubarb are a common ingredient in many dishes, the flower stems raise some concerns. Can you eat them safely, or should they be avoided?
What Are Rhubarb Flower Stems?
Rhubarb is a perennial plant that grows for many years and is often grown for its edible, stalk-like stems. These stems, usually red or green, are harvested for cooking, while the large leaves are discarded due to their toxicity. But, as the plant matures, it sends up tall flower stalks, which can catch the eye of any gardener. These flower stems appear as clusters of small flowers, typically white or pink, atop tall, thick stalks.
Though the flowers are not typically harvested or eaten, it’s important to understand the full scope of the plant’s growth process. While the stems of the flowers are technically part of the plant, their edibility is a subject of debate.
Can You Eat Rhubarb Flower Stems?
The Short Answer: No, It’s Not Recommended
While rhubarb flower stems are technically edible, they are not recommended for consumption. The reason behind this lies in the presence of compounds that can be harmful when consumed. Rhubarb flowers, like the leaves, contain oxalic acid and anthraquinone glycosides, both of which can be toxic when ingested in larger quantities. These compounds can cause symptoms ranging from nausea to more severe effects like kidney damage.
Why Are Rhubarb Flower Stems Potentially Dangerous?
Oxalic Acid and Its Effects
Oxalic acid is a naturally occurring compound found in many plants, including rhubarb. In large amounts, oxalic acid can bind with calcium in the body, potentially leading to the formation of kidney stones or other complications in the digestive system. While the stalks of rhubarb are safe to eat in moderation, the flower stems tend to contain higher concentrations of oxalic acid, making them a potential risk when consumed.
Anthraquinone Glycosides
Anthraquinone glycosides are another compound present in rhubarb flowers. These compounds can act as a laxative, but they can also cause abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and dehydration if consumed in large quantities. This is why it’s best to avoid eating the flower stems, as the levels of these glycosides can vary.
What Happens if You Eat Rhubarb Flower Stems?
Mild Symptoms
In many cases, eating small amounts of rhubarb flower stems may cause mild digestive issues, such as nausea, vomiting, or stomach cramps. These symptoms occur due to the compounds in the plant that irritate the gastrointestinal system.
Severe Reactions
If larger quantities of flower stems are eaten, more severe symptoms may arise. The high concentration of oxalic acid could lead to kidney problems, including kidney stones. Anthraquinone glycosides could cause stronger gastrointestinal disturbances, leading to dehydration or diarrhea. These more serious effects are rare but can occur with overconsumption.
Are There Any Benefits to Eating Rhubarb Flower Stems?
Though we’ve established that eating rhubarb flower stems is not safe, it’s important to note the benefits of rhubarb stalks. The edible stalks of rhubarb are packed with nutrients such as:
Vitamins and Minerals: Rhubarb stalks are rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, calcium, and potassium, all of which support bone health, immune function, and heart health.
Low in Calories: Rhubarb stalks are low in calories, making them an excellent choice for people who are looking to manage their weight.
Antioxidants: Rhubarb is also known for containing powerful antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
While the flower stems do not offer these benefits, it’s worth noting that rhubarb as a whole is a healthy and versatile plant when consumed in the right way.
What Should You Do if You Accidentally Eat Rhubarb Flower Stems?
If you or someone else has accidentally eaten rhubarb flower stems, don’t panic. In most cases, the person will experience only mild symptoms, and these will pass as the body processes the compounds. However, if significant amounts have been consumed or if the person shows signs of more severe symptoms (like excessive vomiting, diarrhea, or dehydration), it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.
Can You Use Rhubarb Flower Stems in Gardening or as Decoration?
While eating rhubarb flower stems is not advisable, there are other ways to use them in your garden. The tall, vibrant flowers can serve as an eye-catching decorative feature, adding height and beauty to your garden bed. You can also compost the flower stems, turning them into nutrient-rich matter that can help your other plants thrive.
For those interested in a more sustainable gardening approach, using rhubarb flowers for composting is a safe way to benefit from the plant without the health risks associated with consuming them.
How to Harvest and Care for Rhubarb Properly
If you’re growing rhubarb in your garden, it’s important to understand how to care for the plant to avoid any unwanted flower stems. The best time to harvest rhubarb is in the early spring, before the plant begins to send up flower stalks. Once the plant flowers, the stalks become tougher and less palatable, making them less desirable for cooking.
Regular Harvesting: To prevent your rhubarb from flowering, be sure to regularly harvest the edible stalks throughout the growing season. This will help encourage the plant to focus on producing more tender stalks.
Flower Removal: If you notice flower stems starting to appear, you can remove them early to prevent the plant from using its energy on flowers instead of producing more edible stalks.
Fertilization: Providing the right balance of nutrients to your rhubarb plant can help it grow strong, healthy stalks. Make sure the soil is rich in organic matter and that the plant gets plenty of sunlight.
Conclusion
While rhubarb flower stems are technically edible, it is not recommended to eat them due to the presence of harmful compounds like oxalic acid and anthraquinone glycosides. These compounds can cause digestive issues and potentially more severe health problems when consumed in large quantities. If you want to enjoy rhubarb, stick to the stalks, which are safe and full of nutrients. Always be cautious with plants, especially when it comes to parts like flowers and leaves, which can sometimes be toxic.
By understanding these risks and benefits, you can enjoy rhubarb safely and ensure that your gardening practices are both healthy and sustainable.
