Herb Specifications
- Season: Perennial
- USDA Zones: 6 - 9
- Height: 60 inches
- Bloom Season: Late summer to mid fall
- Bloom Color: Violet blue
- Environment: Full sun
- Soil Type: Moist, well-drained sandy to clay soils
Planting Directions
- Temperature: 73F
- Average Germ Time: 14 - 21 days
- Light Required: No
- Depth: 1/4 - 1/2 inch
- Sowing Rate: 3 seeds per plant
- Moisture: Keep seeds moist until germination
- Plant Spacing: 18 - 24 inches
Cardoon (Cynara Cardunculus) - Cardoon is considered to be a tender perennial. In cold climates it is often grown as an annual. It is a member of the artichoke family with thick, deeply cut, thistle-like leaves and a violet colored thistle flower head in late summer. Commonly it is called Artichoke Thistle. This herb plant is grown both for eating and for its importance as a medicinal herb.
A compound found in the leaves of Cardoon is called cynarin. Cynarin improves the function of both the liver and the gall bladder. It stimulates digestive juices and helps to lower cholesterol. The stems of Cardoon are blanched and used like celery, and the young, tender leaves can be eaten raw or cooked.
Cardoon performs best if it is started indoors 4 - 6 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant outdoors into the herb garden after the danger of frost has passed. It prefers full sun and soil rich in organic matter. Prepare a bed in advance with aged compost. It does not grow well in containers.
