Cardoon

One plant in 4.5 inch pot.

The stalks of cardoon have a similar flavor to artichoke when boiled (not for eating raw). Delicious as a side vegetable, or in soups and stews. Cardoon stocks should be blanched before harvest. To blanch, tie the stalks up firmly and wrap with black plastic or black and white newspaper. If left unharvested, the 3–4' tall plants will produce large, purple, thistle-like flowers. The sharply lobed and serrated silver-green leaves are a unique addition to flower arrangements. Tender Perennial in Arkansas

LIGHT PREFERENCE: Sun

PLANT SPACING: 18-24 inches

HARDINESS ZONES: Can be grown as Annual or will overwinter with protection. They don't like being wet in the winter, so plan on raised garden bed

HARVEST: Gather stalks after 3 months of growing. Tie upright with twine and wrap with black plastic or newspaper to exclude sunlight. Blanch for 3–4 weeks during cool weather.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Well-drained, moist, fertile soil.