Zone: Not fully hardy here (Zone 6a) so treat as an annual. If well-protected, may overwinter and bloom second year.
Height: 0.5-1.5 meters (1.5-5 feet)
Spread: 1.0-1.2 meters (3-4 feet)
Bloom: Cardoons seldom bloom here (see Zone, above)
Flower: If overwintered, will bloom with a spectacular purple thistle like that of the artichoke (Cynara scolymus).
Foliage: Velvety silvery-blue-green giant leaves, deeply cut, edible
Light: Full sun; will tolerate part shade
Water: Minimal, once established
Soil: Rich and well-drained
Other: Leaf stalks are edible - especially popular in Italian cuisine
Garden locations: Dramatic and bold accent plant; esp. nice in raised area
CARDOON - Cynara cardunculus
Cardoons are stunning in the landscape, especially against a dark background. Use to outline a walkway or draw attention to an area.
