UK bans giant rhubarb after study finds popular garden plant is invasive species

Exclusive: plant from South America, also known as Gunnera, found to spread rapidly and choke native flora

With its dramatic leaves and sprawling structure, the giant rhubarb has long been a popular garden plant, gracing the grounds of stately homes and multiple National Trust properties.

But the UK government is now to enact a ban - similar to that on Japanese knotweed - on the plant, also known as Gunnera, meaning it cannot be sold or cultivated, and those who have it in their gardens must ensure it does not spread.