Herb Specifications
- Season: Perennial
- USDA Zones: 7 - 10
- Height: 40 inches
- Bloom Season: Late summer to early fall
- Bloom Color: Violet
- Environment: Full sun
- Soil Type: Moist, well-drained sandy to clay soils
Planting Directions
- Temperature: 50F
- Average Germ Time: 14 - 30 days
- Light Required: No
- Depth: 1/2 - 3/4 inch deep
- Sowing Rate: 2 to 3 seeds per plant
- Moisture: Keep seeds moist until germination
- Plant Spacing: 24 - 36 inches
Artichoke Violet (Cynara Scolymus) - Bring an exotic look to your herb garden by growing Artichoke seeds! 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, Artichoke violet globe is widely cultivated and is 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 Artichoke herb variety produces buds that are violet in color and are known for being very flavorful. Start your herb seeds today!
How To Grow Artichokes From Seed: Start the Artichoke seeds indoors in late winter. Many gardeners recommend a chilling period for the young Artichoke herb 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.