This vigorous perennial has upright edible stems with large silver-grey spiny divided leaves and forms a clump. It has large purple thistle-like flowers that appear above the foliage from mid spring to midsummer.

Hardiness zones 6 to 10

Cynara cardunculus is naturally found in the Mediterranean region growing in well drained, fertile moist sandy stony soils in an open sunny position and is frost and drought tender.

Cardoon is a large perennial that is grown for its atractive foliage and flowers. It is planted in parks and gardens as a specimen or used along perennial borders for foliage contrast. This vigorous perennial requires ample space to grow and establishes in one season. It is regarded as a weed in some countries. ID 827

Cynara(si-NAH-ra) cardunculus(kar-dun-KEW-lus)

Asteraceae (ass-ter-AY-see-ee)     
(Compositae)
Sunflower Family