The Canada Red Rhubarb is a perennial vegetable grown primarily for its sweet-tart edible leaf stalks that are commonly used in jams, sauces and pies. This plant develops from a short crown, growing thick stems with large heart-shaped leaves that retain their green color throughout the season. In summer, white flowers appear above the green foliage.

The Canada Red Rhubarb typically grows shorter, more slender stalks that feature a striking red color with a sweeter flavor than other cultivars. For a more reliable crop, it is recommended not to harvest the Canada Red Rhubarb in its first year of growth to allow its root system to establish.