Cynara scolymus

A striking perennial forming a large clump of architectural silver-grey foliage with edible flower buds harvested before flowering. If left to mature, the buds open into spectacular large purple thistle-like flowers that create a bold ornamental display and attract bees and other beneficial pollinators. The bold foliage adds texture and structure to ornamental gardens, while the globe-shaped buds provide a productive harvest.

Thrives in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil and benefits from added compost to encourage heavier cropping. In colder regions, foliage may die back or become semi-dormant over winter, especially after hard frosts, but plants generally regrow from the crown in spring.