Rhubarb Chard: What It Is, How to Grow It & How to Use It

Rhubarb chard is a colourful variety of Swiss chard grown for its vibrant red stalks and dark green leaves. Despite the name, it is not related to rhubarb and does not taste like it. The name comes purely from the rhubarb-like colour of the stems.

This guide explains what rhubarb chard is, how it differs from rhubarb, how to grow it, and how to use it — ⭐ Recommended Products — 🌱 Rhubarb & Growing Essentials

Rhubarb is a hardy, productive perennial that’s great for desserts, compotes, and early spring harvests. These essentials will help you grow it successfully and enjoy its harvest year after year.

• Rhubarb Crowns / Plants
Established rhubarb crowns are the easiest way to start — strong plants ready to go in the ground or large containers. Look for reliable varieties like Victoria or Crimson King.
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• Rhubarb Forcers
Special covers used in early spring to ‘force’ tender, pale stems sooner than usual — perfect if you want early harvests and sweeter stalks.
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• Rhubarb Seeds & Starter Kits
If you prefer growing from seed, seed packs with quality varieties give you a head start — ideal for sowing under cover before transplanting later.
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• Garden Compost / Soil Improver for Rhubarb
Rich, well-drained compost or well-rotted manure helps rhubarb establish strong roots and produce big, healthy stems year after year.
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• Rhubarb Growing Guide & Plant Care Book
A helpful reference on planting, forcing, feeding, and harvesting — great for beginners or anyone wanting bigger yields.
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🌿 What Is Rhubarb Chard?

Rhubarb chard is a type of Swiss chard (leaf beet) with:

• Bright red or deep pink stalks
• Glossy green leaves
• A mild, earthy flavour

It’s grown as a leafy vegetable and is harvested for both its stems and leaves.

Important:
Rhubarb chard is not rhubarb.

• Rhubarb = edible stalks only, leaves are poisonous
• Rhubarb chard = leaves and stalks are both edible

🥬 Rhubarb Chard vs Rhubarb

The similarity is visual only, not botanical or culinary.

🌱 How to Grow Rhubarb Chard

Rhubarb chard is easy to grow and ideal for beginners.

Sowing

• Sow seeds March–July
• Direct sow outdoors or start in pots
• Sow about 2cm deep

Growing Conditions

• Full sun or partial shade
• Moist, well-drained soil
• Regular watering

Harvesting

• Ready to harvest in 6–8 weeks
• Pick outer leaves regularly
• Cut stems at the base

Regular harvesting encourages continuous growth.

🍳 How to Use Rhubarb Chard

Rhubarb chard is versatile and works well in many savoury dishes.

Common uses include:

• Stir-fries
• Steamed or sautéed as a side
• Added to curries or pasta dishes
• Used like spinach in pies and quiches
• Added to soups and stews

The stalks can be cooked slightly longer than the leaves, similar to celery.

🧂 What Does Rhubarb Chard Taste Like?

• Leaves: similar to spinach, mild and slightly earthy
• Stalks: firmer, gently sweet when cooked

It does not taste sharp or sour like rhubarb.

🌿 Is Rhubarb Chard Healthy?

Yes, rhubarb chard is:

• High in vitamins A, C, and K
• A good source of magnesium and iron
• Low in calories
• High in fibre

It’s a nutritious addition to a balanced diet.

🧠 Common Questions

Is rhubarb chard the same as rainbow chard?
No, but they’re closely related. Rainbow chard has multiple stem colours, while rhubarb chard is usually red.

Can you eat rhubarb chard raw?
Yes, young leaves can be eaten raw, but cooking improves flavour and texture.

Does rhubarb chard come back every year?
No, it’s usually grown as an annual, though it can overwinter in mild climates.

🌿 Final Thoughts

Rhubarb chard is a colourful, productive leafy vegetable that’s easy to grow and cook with. Despite its name, it has nothing to do with rhubarb beyond appearance. Mild in flavour and packed with nutrients, it’s a great choice for allotments and kitchen gardens.

A practical crop with real visual appeal.