The leaves of the rhubarb plant are poisonous, but the stalks are edible, so what is in the leaf that's not in the stalk?

dave_fl

The leaves of rhubarb contain oxalic acid and soluble oxalates. Consumption of rhubarb leaves can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pains, and even death. The concern expressed by some individuals is that the oxalic acid and soluble oxalates would move from the leaves to the stalks upon exposure to freezing temperatures. In fact, however, the movement of these compounds into the stalks is not a problem Apr 01 00, 1:45 PM