Cardoon Cynara cardunculus
ABOUT
The plant known as the cardoon has a striking appearance with silvery-green foliage that is deeply lobed and has an architectural quality. The leaves are large and can have a leathery feel, and the edges are often marked with a spiky texture. During its blooming season, it produces a bold and eye-catching display of thistle-like flowers. These blossoms are usually a vibrant violet or purple color, clustered at the end of the plant's long, branching stems. The overall look of the cardoon is quite dramatic, with its combination of spiny leaf margins and the sculptural quality of its flower heads, making it a distinct and ornamental addition to any garden setting.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Cardoon, Artichoke Thistle, Cardone, Cardi, Carduni, Cardi.
Common names
Cynara scolymus, Cynara sylvestris, Cynara hortensis, Cynara altilis, Cynara cardunculus var. altilis, Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus, Cynara cardunculus var. sylvestris.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant Cynara cardunculus, commonly known as the artichoke, is generally not toxic to humans and is widely consumed as a food source. However, like many plants, there may be individual cases of allergy or sensitivity. Ingestion of artichokes by someone who is allergic may lead to symptoms such as gastrointestinal upset, hives, or more severe allergic reactions. Consumption of the plant in normal food quantities is usually safe for individuals who are not allergic.
To pets
The artichoke plant, Cynara cardunculus, is not considered toxic to pets. It is not commonly reported to cause serious harm if ingested by animals such as cats and dogs. However, as with any non-typical food, pets might experience mild digestive discomfort if they consume parts of the artichoke plant, particularly if they are not used to it. Symptoms can include vomiting or diarrhea, but serious toxicity is unlikely.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Silver-green
Flower color
Purple
Height
3-6 feet (0.91-1.83 meters)
Spread
3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary uses: The cardoon, which is the most common common name for Cynara cardunculus, is grown for its edible stalks and is a traditional vegetable in Mediterranean cuisine.
- Garden ornamental: Its striking silver-green foliage and large purple thistle-like flower heads add aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes.
- Biomass production: Cardoon is investigated for its potential as an energy crop, particularly for biomass production due to its rapid growth and high yield.
- Soil improvement: As a deep-rooted perennial, it can help in improving soil structure and reducing erosion.
- Drought resistance: With its adaptability to semi-arid conditions, the cardoon is beneficial in xeriscaping, helping to conserve water in landscapes.
- Pollinator support: The flowers of the cardoon attract bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems and pollination.
Medical Properties- Cholesterol reduction: Cardoon (Cynara cardunculus) has been suggested to help lower cholesterol levels due to its content of luteolin, a flavonoid.
- Liver health: It is traditionally used in some cultures to improve liver function and to stimulate bile secretion.
- Antioxidant effects: Cardoon extracts may exhibit antioxidant properties, possibly reducing oxidative stress on the body.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Some studies suggest that the flavonoids in cardoon may have anti-inflammatory effects.
- Diuretic action: Cardoon is sometimes used as a natural diuretic to help with the removal of excess fluid from the body.
- Digestive health: The plant is thought to have digestive benefits, such as relieving indigestion and improving appetite.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Cheese production: The cardoon's flowers contain enzymes similar to those in rennet, traditionally used in the production of some cheeses.
- Natural dye: The cardoon can be used as a source of green pigment for natural fabric dyes.
- Vegetable parchment: Cardoon leaves have been historically used to create a form of vegetable parchment for wrapping and storing butter.
- Fiber production: The stalks of the cardoon plant can be processed to yield fibers for manufacturing paper or textiles.
- Ornamental use: With its large, thistle-like flowers and silvery leaves, cardoon is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens.
- Biomass fuel: Cardoon can be cultivated as a renewable energy source, where it is converted into biomass for fuel.
- Vegetable rennet: As a vegetarian alternative to animal rennet, cardoon extract is used to coagulate milk in cheese-making.
- Folk musical instruments: The dried stalks of the cardoon have been used to make reeds for traditional folk instruments.
- Photography: Cardoon juice, due to its photoreactive properties, has been used historically in the cyanotype photographic process.
- Companion planting: Cardoon is sometimes used in gardens to attract beneficial insects, like bees and butterflies, due to its large and inviting flowers.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe artichoke is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe artichoke is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Overcoming adversity: Cynara cardunculus, commonly known as the artichoke, is known for its tough exterior and the process required to reach its tender heart, symbolizing the human journey of overcoming difficulties to reveal inner beauty and reward.
- Hope and prosperity: As a plant that can produce food, the artichoke symbolizes the hope for a fruitful future and prosperity in one's endeavors.
- Love and relationships: Due to its layered anatomy, with layers protecting the heart, the artichoke can represent the complexities of love and the need to be patient and work through obstacles in relationships.
WaterThe artichoke (Cynara cardunculus) requires regular watering to ensure consistent soil moisture, particularly during the growing season. Water the artichoke plant deeply once or twice a week, providing it with 1 to 1.5 gallons of water each time, depending on the climate and soil conditions. It is important to avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot, so ensure the soil drains well. During the hotter months or in dryer climates, the frequency of watering may need to be increased to maintain adequate moisture levels.
LightArtichokes thrive in full sun, meaning they need at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for an artichoke plant is an open area where it is exposed to unfiltered sunlight throughout the day. This plant is capable of tolerating partial shade, but its growth and productivity will be best with ample sunlight.
TemperatureArtichokes prefer mild temperatures and can grow in areas where the temperature ranges from 50 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive short periods of colder weather down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but are sensitive to hard frosts. The ideal temperature for optimal growth of artichokes is between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPruning an artichoke includes cutting away dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and encourage more robust growth. Prune artichokes after the main harvest, typically in late summer or early fall. Remove spent flower stalks and any small suckers at the base that won't mature before winter. Annual pruning helps improve air circulation and reduces the risk of disease.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor the artichoke (Cynara cardunculus), well-draining soil rich in organic matter is ideal. A soil pH range of 6.5 to 7.5 is optimal. Mix in compost or aged manure to enhance fertility and texture.
RepottingArtichokes (Cynara cardunculus) generally do not require frequent repotting as they are perennial plants. Repot them only if they outgrow their current container or every 2-3 years to refresh the soil.
Humidity & MistingArtichokes (Cynara cardunculus) tolerate a wide range of humidity levels but prefer moderate to high humidity, avoiding excessive dry air which can affect leaf health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place artichokes in bright light and cooler temps.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
7-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Cynara cardunculus, commonly known as cardoon, begins with seed germination, which occurs in mild to warm temperatures after the last frost when planted in well-draining soil. The seedlings emerge and establish a rosette of silver-green leaves that grow throughout the vegetative stage. Cardoon then enters a period of vernalization, which requires a cold period to initiate flowering. After vernalization, the plant bolts, sending up tall flower stalks in its second year that can reach up to 2 meters in height, culminating in large, thistle-like purple flowers. Flowers are followed by seed production, where the plant disperses its seeds, which can lead to new plants if conditions are favorable. Upon completion of seed dispersal, the plant often dies, although in some climates, cardoon can behave as a perennial, surviving and flowering for several years.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Cynara cardunculus, commonly known as the cardoon or artichoke thistle, is typically propagated through seeds. The best time to sow cardoon seeds is in late winter or early spring, around 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. The popular method involves starting seeds indoors in small pots or trays using a well-draining seed starting mix. Cardoon seeds should be planted at a depth of about one-quarter of an inch (6 mm), and the soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Seedlings usually emerge in 2 to 3 weeks, after which they should be provided with plenty of light to avoid becoming leggy. Once the risk of frost has passed and the seedlings have grown strong enough, they can be hardened off and transplanted to the garden, spacing them about 24 to 36 inches (60 to 90 cm) apart to accommodate their size at maturity.
