Artichoke
Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus • Asteraceae
🌱 Seed Category
Vegetable
🌍 Origin Region
Mediterranean region
📅 Days to Maturity
85-100 days from transplants to first harvest
🌡️ Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 7-10, grown as an annual in colder zones
About This Seed
Seeds are teardrop-shaped, flattened, smooth, and mottled grey-brown. The mature plant is a large, thistle-like perennial growing up to 4 feet tall and wide, featuring deeply lobed silvery-green leaves and large edible flower buds.
Growing Information
Growing Season
Spring planting, start indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost, sensitive to hard frost
Germination
Germinates in 10-21 days at an optimal soil temperature of 70-80°F. Requires darkness for germination with high germination rates under proper conditions.
Planting Instructions
Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep, spaced 4 feet apart in rows. Prefers rich, well-draining loamy soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires full sun (6-8 hours daily) and consistent, moderate watering. Prefers evenly moist soil and has low to moderate drought tolerance once established.
Companion Plants
Companions well with peas, beans, sunflowers, and tarragon; avoid planting near potatoes.
Special Characteristics
Produces edible flower buds rich in antioxidants, attracts pollinators when allowed to flower, and has striking ornamental architectural foliage.