artichoke
Cynara cardunculus
RHS AGM 1993, RHS Plants for Pollinators
USDA zones7 to 9
SunNeeds full sun (6+ hours)
WaterHandles dry to moist soil
Size3 to 6 feet tall2 to 3 feet wide
- Growth rate
- Rapid
- Habit
- Clumping
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Purple
- Foliage color
- Gray/silver, green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus) is a perennial for borders, cut flowers, pollinator gardens, and food gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 7, or down to 0°F (-18°C). This plant likes full sun and dry to moist soil of most types. Its purple blooms attract butterflies and bees, and its gray-green leaves add a silvery touch to the bed. It sits low on the menu for deer and rabbits. Give it room, since it grows quickly and can reach 6 feet tall.
Pairs well with Delphinium, Garlic chives, and African marigold.
Native range
Europe, Africa, Baleares, Canary Is., and 3 more places. See all 7
Europe, Africa, Baleares, Canary Is., Madeira, NW. Balkan Pen., and Sicilia.