‘Cherokee Purple’

Claimed to be one of the sweetest beefsteak toms, ‘Cherokee Purple’ is an heirloom cordon variety that’s making a comeback for 2021. Its large, pumpkin-style fruits are noted for their dusky pinkred colour inside and out, retaining a slightly greener hue near stems when they’re ready – an indicator that fruits are ripe. Seeds are believed to have been passed down by Cherokee tribes, originating in Tennessee, USA.

■ From The Organic Gardening Catalogue (£3.49 for 15 seeds); www. organiccatalogue.com.