CARDOON SEEDS (Cynara cardunculus)

A striking architectural plant, Cardoon brings dramatic height and bold texture to the garden. With tall, silvery-grey foliage and large thistle-like purple blooms, it makes an impressive focal point in borders and ornamental plantings. Closely related to the globe artichoke, cardoon is also valued as an edible plant, with its blanched leaf stalks enjoyed as a Mediterranean delicacy.

Why Grow "Cardoon"

• Bold, architectural plant for dramatic garden displays

• Stunning purple thistle-like flowers loved by pollinators

• Silvery foliage adds unique texture

• Edible stems prized in Mediterranean cuisine

Key Features

• Type: Perennial (Cynara cardunculus)

• Height: 150–200 cm

• Flowering: Summer (July–September)

• Position: Full sun

• Uses: Borders, architectural displays, edible gardening, pollinator-friendly

Ideal For

• Adding dramatic height and texture to borders

• Pollinator-friendly and wildlife gardens

• Edible gardening with a Mediterranean twist

• Cottage and ornamental gardens

Sowing & Growing

• Sow indoors: 6–8 weeks before the last frost

• Sow outdoors: After frost danger has passed

• Germination: 14–21 days

• Space seedlings: 90–120 cm apart

• Prefers full sun and rich, well-drained soil