Early Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) Sprout

Observation: The rhubarb this year seems to be sprouting earlier than normal. Rhubarb usually sprouts towards the end of the month of May. When it grows about 4-7 inches tall is when people start picking them. Usually we pull them out with the roots, break off the root, peel the leaves, peel the stem of the rhubarb, and dip it in sugar and eat it. Growing up I was told not to have to much. Apparently there is a lot of recipes for the rhubarb.

Resource: WebMD - Rhubarb -The root and underground stem (rhizome) of the rhubarb are used to make medicine. Rhubarb is used primarily for digestive complaints including constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, stomach pain, gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, and preparation for certain GI diagnostic procedures. Rhubarb is sometimes applied to the skin to treat cold sores. In food, rhubarb stems are eaten in pie and other recipes. Rhubarb is also used as a flavoring agent.