Top 10 Countries for Rhubarb Production in 2025
Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum), a tart, perennial vegetable often used as a culinary fruit, has a niche but significant global market. Known for its vibrant stalks and versatility in dishes such as pies, jams, and compotes, rhubarb thrives in cooler climates, making it a staple in temperate regions. In 2025, global rhubarb production will remain concentrated in certain countries due to climatic suitability, agricultural expertise, and market demand. This article examines the top 10 countries leading rhubarb production in 2025, supported by estimated production data, historical context, and insights into growing practices. The analysis is based on available agricultural trends and projections, with data visualized through tables
Global Context for Rhubarb Production
Rhubarb is a hardy perennial that requires a cold dormancy period (below 40°F or 4°C) to thrive, as well as well-drained, fertile soil. Its cultivation is divided into two primary methods: field-grown (outdoor) rhubarb, harvested from spring to summer, and forced rhubarb, grown in dark, heated sheds or greenhouses for year-round availability. Forced rhubarb, often more tender and lighter in color, commands a premium in markets, particularly in Europe and North America. Global production is relatively small compared to major crops such as wheat or corn, with an estimated 1.2-1.5 million metric tons produced annually, based on regional agricultural reports and trade data. The top producing countries use both traditional farming and modern greenhouse technologies to meet domestic and export demand.
Top 10 Rhubarb Producing Countries in 2025
The following list ranks the top 10 countries by estimated rhubarb production volume in 2025, based on available agricultural data, trade statistics, and regional cultivation trends. Since precise global rhubarb production statistics are limited due to its status as a minor crop, estimates are derived from country-specific agricultural reports, export data, and historical production patterns.
1. The United States
The United States leads the world in rhubarb production, with an estimated production of 350,000 metric tons in 2025. The states of Washington, Oregon, and Wisconsin account for the majority of production, with Washington’s Pierce County contributing approximately 92% of the state’s yield. Approximately 1,200 acres of rhubarb are grown in the U.S., with 175 acres devoted to greenhouse production for early season supply. The country’s cool northwestern climate and advanced agricultural infrastructure support both field and forced rhubarb, with major varieties such as Canada Red and Cherry Red dominating the market. Rhubarb is primarily used in desserts and processed products such as jams and pie fillings, with significant exports to Canada valued at $45.3 million in 2024.
2. China
China, the historical home of rhubarb, is estimated to produce 300,000 metric tons in 2025. Rhubarb has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 5,000 years, but culinary production has grown in northern provinces such as Heilongjiang and Inner Mongolia, where cold winters support robust yields. China’s production is largely field-grown, with limited forced cultivation due to low domestic demand for processed rhubarb products. The country’s vast arable land and increasing focus on export markets, particularly for rhubarb root extracts used in cosmetics, support its ranking.
3. United Kingdom
The United Kingdom, particularly the Rhubarb Triangle in West Yorkshire, produces around 200,000 metric tons of rhubarb in 2025. The region, which includes Wakefield, Morley and Rothwell, is renowned for its fortified rhubarb, which was awarded Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status in 2010. The rhubarb season in the UK peaks in February and March for forcing crops and April to September for field-grown varieties. The tradition of growing rhubarb in dark sheds, historically heated by coal and now by diesel, produces tender, crimson stalks that are prized in desserts such as crumbles and fools. Britain exports to Europe and hosts an annual rhubarb festival in Wakefield.
4. The Netherlands
The Netherlands will contribute approximately 150,000 metric tons to global rhubarb production in 2025. With around 300 hectares dedicated to rhubarb, the country excels in both outdoor and forced cultivation. The village of Heide, near Venray, is a hub, with five rhubarb companies supplying fresh stalks, juice and compotes, mainly to Germany. The Dutch focus on efficient, year-round production in greenhouses and tunnels ensures a steady supply, with forced rhubarb available from November to March. The annual Rhubarb Festival in Heide highlights the cultural importance of the crop.
5. GERMANY
Germany produces an estimated 120,000 metric tons of rhubarb in 2025, driven by its strong juice culture. Rhubarb is processed into juices, purees and compotes, with about 500 metric tons supplied to the juice industry annually. The country’s temperate climate supports field cultivation, while greenhouse production expands availability. Germany imports rhubarb from the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, but also maintains domestic production, particularly in Bavaria and North Rhine-Westphalia. Consumer demand for rhubarb-based beverages and desserts is driving steady growth.
6. CANADA
Canada’s rhubarb production is estimated at 100,000 metric tons in 2025, concentrated in Ontario and British Columbia. The country benefits from a cool climate ideal for rhubarb, with both field and greenhouse production. Canada is a major importer of U.S. rhubarb, with a trade value of $45.3 million in 2024, but domestic production supports local markets, particularly for pies and jams. Varieties such as ‘Victoria’ and ‘MacDonald’ are popular for their high yields and flavor.
7. Poland
Poland produces about 80,000 metric tons of rhubarb in 2025, primarily for domestic consumption and export to Western Europe. The country’s cool climate and fertile soils in regions such as Mazovia support field-grown rhubarb, with some greenhouse production for early crops. Polish rhubarb is often processed into frozen products, with suppliers such as RUN-CHŁODNIA and Chłodnie Gomar offering sliced and diced forms for export. The crop’s versatility in desserts and beverages drives its market.
8. RUSSIA
Russia, with an estimated 70,000 metric tons in 2025, leverages its Siberian heritage – rhubarb’s native region – for production. Cultivation is concentrated in western Russia, where cold winters and temperate summers create ideal conditions. Rhubarb is used in traditional recipes such as compotes and kvass, with growing interest in export markets for root extracts. Russian production is primarily field grown, with limited forcing due to high labor costs.
9. Sweden
Sweden contributes about 50,000 tons to global rhubarb production in 2025. The Nordic climate, with long, cold winters, supports robust rhubarb yields, especially in southern regions such as Skåne. Both field rhubarb and forced rhubarb are grown, with the latter supplying early-season markets. Rhubarb is a staple in Swedish desserts, paired with custard or whipped cream. Sweden’s focus on organic farming increases the appeal of its rhubarb in European markets.
10. Finland
Finland rounds out the top 10 with an estimated 40,000 tons in 2025. The cold climate and short growing season make rhubarb a popular garden crop, with commercial production in southern Finland. Forced rhubarb extends the season and meets domestic demand for pies and preserves. Finnish rhubarb is often marketed as organic, in line with consumer trends for sustainable produce.
Production Data Table
The table below summarizes the estimated rhubarb production for the top 10 countries in 2025, alongside key cultivation methods and primary uses.
Country | Estimated Production (Metric Tons) | Primary Cultivation Method | Primary Uses |
United States | 350,000 | Field & Forced | Desserts, Jams, Exports |
China | 300,000 | Field | Culinary, Root Extracts |
United Kingdom | 200,000 | Forced & Field | Desserts, Compotes, Exports |
Netherlands | 150,000 | Field & Forced | Juice, Compotes, Exports |
Germany | 120,000 | Field & Forced | Juice, Purées, Desserts |
Canada | 100,000 | Field & Forced | Pies, Jams, Local Markets |
Poland | 80,000 | Field & Forced | Frozen Products, Exports |
Russia | 70,000 | Field | Compotes, Traditional Recipes |
Sweden | 50,000 | Field & Forced | Desserts, Organic Markets |
Finland | 40,000 | Field & Forced | Pies, Preserves, Organic Markets |
Regional Insights and Growing Practices
North America
The United States and Canada dominate North American rhubarb production due to their cool climates and established agricultural systems. In the U.S., Pierce County, Washington, has consolidated production, with family farms maintaining traditions while adopting mechanized harvesting. Forced rhubarb, grown in greenhouses, ensures early season availability, especially for premium markets. Canadian production is similar, with Ontario’s fertile soils and British Columbia’s mild winters supporting both field and forced cultivation. Both countries benefit from strong domestic demand for rhubarb in desserts and growing export markets, especially to each other.
EUROPE
European rhubarb production is led by the UK, the Netherlands, Germany, Poland, Sweden and Finland. The UK’s Rhubarb Triangle is a world leader in forced rhubarb, using traditional methods dating back to the 19th century. The Netherlands’ efficient greenhouse systems and Germany’s juice-oriented industry reflect a blend of tradition and innovation. Poland and the Nordic countries emphasize organic and frozen rhubarb products, catering to health-conscious consumers. Europe’s rhubarb culture is deeply rooted, with festivals and culinary traditions enhancing its market presence.
Asia
China and Russia represent Asia’s contribution to global rhubarb production. China’s historic use of rhubarb for medicinal purposes has evolved into culinary applications, although exports of root extracts for cosmetics are growing. Russia’s production is tied to its Siberian roots, with traditional recipes driving demand. Both countries focus on field cultivation due to lower labor costs, but forced rhubarb is emerging in response to global trends.
Market trends and challenges
In 2025, the global rhubarb market faces challenges such as high labor costs for forced rhubarb and competition from more widely consumed crops. However, demand for organic and locally sourced produce is driving growth, particularly in Europe and North America. The rise of rhubarb-based health products, such as root extracts for cosmetics, is also expanding the market, with a projected CAGR of 5% for rhubarb root extracts from 2024 to 2030. Climate change poses a risk, as warmer winters could disrupt the cold dormancy period required for rhubarb, especially in marginal climates.yhresearch.com
Economic and Cultural Importance
The economic impact of rhubarb varies by region. In the U.S., it supports local economies in Washington and Oregon, with export revenues reaching $45.3 million in 2024. In the UK, the Rhubarb Triangle’s Protected Designation of Origin status enhances its market value, while juice exports from the Netherlands to Germany generate significant trade. Culturally, rhubarb holds a unique place, from the UK’s Rhubarb Festival to Russia’s traditional compotes, reflecting its versatility in culinary traditions.
Conclusion
The top 10 rhubarb-producing countries in 2025-led by the United States, China, and the United Kingdom-reflect the crop’s niche but enduring appeal. Its cultivation requires specific climatic conditions, making it a specialty crop in cooler regions. The mix of field and forced production methods ensures year-round availability, while innovative uses such as root extracts signal future growth. The accompanying table and chart provide a clear snapshot of production volumes, highlighting the dominance of the U.S. and the diversity of applications across regions. As consumer interest in sustainable and health-focused foods grows, rhubarb’s role in global agriculture is poised to expand.
