Artichoke

Artichoke Violet (Cynara Scolymus) - Bring an exotic look to your herb garden by growing Artichokes! They have been grown for centuries, dating back to the Greeks and Romans. They are native to the Mediterranean area and grow in the wild. Here in the United States, they are widely cultivated and are considered to be a somewhat tender perennial. The edible portion of the plant is the large flower bud, and each plant produces several of the buds which are 2 – 5 inches across. The heart of the bud is very tender, and there are many wonderful methods of preparation that bring out the flavors of this gourmet herb. This variety produces buds that are violet in color and are known for being very flavorful.

Start the Artichoke seed indoors in late winter. Many gardeners recommend a chilling period for the young plants with temperatures below 50F in order to produce the buds. Plant outdoors after danger of frost has passed in rich organic soil. In hot weather, give the plants deep soakings of water, watering them from the base. To winter the Artichoke plants, cut them down to 8 – 10 inches and mulch them heavily. What grows next year will be offshoots of the parent plant.