Cynara scolymus

Plant Details

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General Information

Scientific name: Cynara scolymus

Also known as: Globe Artichoke

Images: Google Images

Plant Properties

Layer: Herb layer, Vegetable

Format: Smal

Height: 1.50 m

Width: 1.00 m

Growth Rate: -

Leaf: -

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 5-9

Soil Moisture:
Moist, Permeable

Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)

pH:
Acid Neutral Basic

Light:
Sun

Usage properties

Edible part:
Fruit, Leaves, Stem

Edibility:
(3)

Medicinal:
(5)

Features:
Dye, Carbon farming

Description

When harvesting globe artichokes, flower buds that have not yet opened are used. These have a mild and pleasant flavor. Although globe artichokes are considered a delicacy, they can be difficult to eat. Only the base of the involucral leaves and the 'heart' from which the petals grow are consumed. Baby artichokes on side stems can be pickled or added to soups and stews. The plants produce about 5 to 6 main heads per year starting from the second year. Flower stems can be eaten both raw and cooked and have a sweet, nutty flavor. Young leaf stems can serve as a substitute for celery. To reduce bitterness, they are usually blanched before being consumed raw or cooked. The leaves have a bitter taste and are eaten cooked. Dried flowers can be used as a rennet substitute when curdling plant milk.

Harvest Data

Start Harvest: 15/08

End of Harvest: 15/11

Guilds

Guild Information

Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.

Guild Details

Guild	Description
Crataegus azarolus Eastern Mayhaw, May hawthorn, Mayhaw, Apple Hawthorn	Mentha can attract beneficial insects and repel pests that are harmful to Cynara scolymus, promoting a healthy growing environment.
Pinus gerardiana Nepal nut pine	Lactuca can provide shade and moisture retention for Cynara scolymus while also improving soil health through its own root systems.
Salvia officinalis Sage	Salvia can enhance the flavor and quality of Cynara scolymus while repelling pests with its aromatic leaves.
Thymus vulgaris Common Thyme, Garden thyme, Wild Thyme	Thymus can attract pollinators and deter harmful insects, benefiting the overall ecosystem of the garden.
Aegopodium podagraria Ground Elder, Bishop's goutweed, Goutweed, Bishop's Weed	Aegopodium can act as a ground cover, helping retain soil moisture and suppressing weeds that compete with Cynara scolymus.