Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) has long been a staple in Alaska's home gardens, prized for its cold tolerance and early-season harvest. As one of the few perennial fruits that grows well there, rhubarb is very popular for home garden production, and there is an interest in commercial production. However, limited research has been conducted to determine which cultivars are best suited for large-scale commercial production under Alaska's unique environmental conditions, including extended daylight hours, cool temperatures, and short growing seasons.
In this study, researchers evaluated multiple rhubarb cultivars for yield, plant vigor, stalk quality, color, and overall marketability. They also assessed traits important for conservation, such as genetic diversity and the preservation of heirloom or locally adapted varieties. The findings highlight cultivars that consistently produced high yields, attractive stalk color, and desirable texture-traits essential for both fresh market sales and value-added processing.
The research also underscores the importance of maintaining diverse rhubarb germplasm in Alaska. By identifying cultivars that perform well commercially while preserving unique genetic resources, the study supports both economic development and long-term crop resilience in northern agricultural systems.
For Alaska growers, the results offer practical guidance for cultivar selection, helping reduce risk and improve profitability. For researchers and conservationists, the study reinforces the role of regional trials in safeguarding crop diversity and strengthening food security in challenging climates.
As interest grows in locally produced foods and climate-adapted crops, rhubarb stands out as a dependable specialty crop for northern regions. This research provides a roadmap for expanding commercial rhubarb production in Alaska while ensuring that valuable plant genetic resources are conserved for future generations.
Dr. Cornwall is a Horticulture and Beta Crops Collection Curator for the United States Department of Agriculture.
The full study can be found on the ASHS HortScience electric journal website at: https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18674-25
Established in 1903, the American Society for Horticultural Science is recognized around the world as one of the most respected and influential professional societies for horticultural scientists. ASHS is committed to promoting and encouraging national and international interest in scientific research and education in all branches of horticulture.
Comprised of thousands of members worldwide, ASHS represents a broad cross-section of the horticultural community-scientists, educators, students, landscape and turf managers, government, extension agents and industry professionals. ASHS members focus on practices and problems in horticulture: breeding, propagation, production and management, harvesting, handling and storage, processing, marketing and use of horticultural plants and products. To learn more, visit ashs.org.
