Cardoon

Cardoon is a unique delicacy, especially in traditional Italian and French cuisine! This cousin of the artichoke is native to the Mediterranean and grows eye-catching 4" buds with 2" violet-purple flowers on elegant 3" to 4-1/2" tall stalks. The unique artichoke-and-celery-like flavor of Cardoon is delicious breaded, fried, raw, pickled, sauteed in pastas, braised in gratins, or in mixed in soups and stews. Once popular in Greek, Roman, and Persian cuisine, Cardoon has since spread in popularity across Europe and America today. This perennial plant is resilient and adaptable to many climates and soil conditions. Embrace the culinary and aesthetic allure of Cardoon by growing this unique plant in your very own garden! Also Known As: Artichoke Thistle, Wild Artichoke, Thistle Cardoon, Cardone, Cardi,  Cardoni, Cardon, Cardo, Globe Artichoke Thistle, Artichaut Sauvage, Gros Chardon, Grosella de Cardo, Desert Artichoke, European Cardoon, Globe Artichoke, Scotch Thistle. Plant Name: A