Skip to the content
SELECT SEEDS
Cardoon
Cardoon
Cardoon
Seed Packet

Cardoon

Cynara cardunculus
By late summer, this architectural wonder is head and shoulders above most other flowers in borders and vegetable gardens. The grey-green cut leaves are gorgeous, and the burly stems hold up large thistle-like lavender flowers that bloom late summer and fall in longer season areas. Cardoon has a long history of culinary use from medieval times to colonial America The stalks were blanched by hoeing earth around the bound stalks, like celery and endive, and eaten as a winter vegetable.
SKU #S222
$4.00
Growing Companions
Angelica
Angelica
Golden Lace
Golden Lace
Angelica 'Vicar's Mead'
Angelica 'Vicar's Mead'
Hibiscus 'Mahogany Splendor'
Hibiscus 'Mahogany Splendor'
Honeywort 'Purpurascens'
Honeywort 'Purpurascens'
Details
Approximate Seeds Per Packet
30
Lifecycle
Annual; tender perennial
Perennial Hardiness Zone
7,
8,
9
Annual Hardiness
Half Hardy Annual
Mature Size
4-6' h x 2-3' w
Sun
Full sun
Soil
Rich, moist, well-drained
Season
Summer to fall
Color
Lavender thistle-like flowers
Features
Great for containers
Great Cut Flower
Attracts Butterflies
Attracts Bees
Attracts Hummingbirds
SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
1/8"
Sprout Time:
5-15 days
Seed To Bloom:
16-18 weeks
Starting Indoors:
Sow indoors in pots 8-10 weeks before last frost date; keep at 65-75°F.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow in zones 8-10, 1 week before last frost date, protecting from frost if necessary.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
1-2 weeks before last frost date to vernalize for flowering, protect from frost if necessary.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Cardoon is native to the Mediterranean region and is closely related to artichoke. While occasionally cultivated as a vegetable, especially in its homeland, it also offers striking ornamental qualities. Its fountain of silvery jagged leaves adds a sculptural note to borders and white gardens. In longer season areas, the plants bloom with densely tufted thistle-like blooms beloved by bees. Tim older leaves to tidy if desired and plant in a warm, protected area.
Final Spacing:
2-3'
Water Requirements:
Medium Water Use
Watering Details:
Moderate water, about 1" a week or less.
Soil pH:
Not particular about pH.
Fertilizer:
Mix 3" inches of compost into the soil prior to planting, or apply an organic pelletized or liquid fertilizer according to package instructions.
Diseases & Pests:
No major problems. Avoid fungal issues by spacing properly in a location with good air circulation and soil drainage.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Cut just before the bracts begin to spread open. Cut the bud off of the stem about 1.5-2" below the base of the bud. Immediately transfer to cool storage (<40°F). Keeps best if stored in cool humidity for two weeks post-harvest.