Six of the best rhubarbs

‘Livingstone’

A novel variety that has been bred to provide stems to pick all summer long, followed by a second flush in autumn. The long, thickish stalks are a lovely pink colour and have a fairly mild flavour.

‘the Sutton’

Developed by Suttons Seeds and first offered for sale in 1884, this variety boasts an upright habit and provides an early crop of bright red stems in the open ground. Ideal for forcing in late winter.

‘Champagne’

An old and much-loved variety that will provide a crop of long ruby-red stems from May that boast a sweeter taste than many others. Considered by some to be the best type for forcing.

‘timperley early’

A heritage variety from the north-west of England, its vigorous pink and green two-tone stems are among the first to be ready for harvesting, sometimes cropping as early as February.

‘Stockbridge Arrow’

Instantly recognisable due to its distinctive arrow-shaped leaves, this modern variety was bred in Yorkshire and has deep-red stalks that will grow up to 24in (60cm) when forced.

‘Victoria’

Named in honour of Queen Victoria after her coronation in 1837, this late cropper produces heavy yields of thick, tender, red stems with green flecking. A sweet and delicious flavour with a sour kick.