Morphological studies and development of Ex-situ protocol for rehabilitation of threatened Rheum species under nursery conditions

Abstract

Rheum is a strong vigorous plant and can live long even in tough conditions. The Rheum species have been domesticated as medicinal plants for human consumption. Rheum species are perennial stout herbs. Rhubarb is a common English name of the genus Rheum. Rhubarb is a plant name for the many different species of Rheum, distributed in the temperate and sub tropical regions of Himalaya from Kashmir to Sikkim and growing wild in the mountains of the Western and North-western provinces of China and adjoining Tibetan territory. It is cultivated much in Europe and the United States. In Kashmir Himalaya, it ranges from an altitude of 1700 - 5500m. It is famous for its medicinal uses. Roots are long and stout. Stem is erect, hollow, sulcate, glabrous or strigose. It is native to Asia-Temperate to Asia – Tropical, from China to India, Nepal and Pakistan. In India, its found in Himachal Pradesh Jammu & Kashmir and Uttar Pradesh. In Jammu and Kashmir, it grows on open slopes and shrubberies in Kashmir, Leh and Zanaskar valley between 3000-5000 m, where R.webbianum is found. The Rheum spiciforme is also one of most known medicinal plant and is  found on high altitudes of Gurez valley(3000m 5000m). Rheum also prefers a full sunny location and thrives in a moist, fertile soil. Most Rheum species can handle heavier clay soils better than many other herbs and makes a striking addition to the spring landscape. Rhubarb is propagated from seeds, seedlings, or pieces of rhizome.