Not only an impressive cropper but also an ornamental feature, you can grow tall and upright Artichoke ?Imperial Star? in rows on the allotments or as a dual purpose feature at the back of a sunny border. The flower buds are large and flavoursome, held above tall study stems during summer.
An attractive Cardoon with purple flower buds which provide good ornamental value as well as a tasty crop of fresh artichokes during summer. The purple-skinned flower buds of Artichoke ?Italian Purple? are generously large and can be removed from the stem when ready.
Globe Artichokes are considered a true gourmet food by many, probably because of there unusual and exotic looks. These large and architectural perennial plants are grown for their edible flower buds, but they also make great ornamentals in the garden. 'Imperial Star' is a very good cropper, even in its first year, and forms exceptionally large buds with a great taste that are ready to harvest between June and September. Any buds left on the plants will flower, looking like thistles that are a magnet for bees and butterflies. Remove the buds just before they open and begin to flower and boil or steam until tender before remove the leaf scales one by one. The scales and hearts are delicious dipped in melted butter. The plants will provide excellent crops for several seasons, but it's best to replace them ever 3 or 4 years as they become gradually less productive. Supplied as 3 established plants in 9cm pots, ready to plant, reaching 180cm (6ft) in height and 75cm (2½ft) wide.
Chinese Artichokes are an excellent addition to the veg plot: unusual, prolific, low maintenance and perennial.
Globe Artichoke 'Green Globe Improved' bears larger, heavier, and more consistent quality globe-shaped heads. The characteristic sharp spines have been greatly reduced in this improved variety. The astonishingly tasty hearts make a supreme delicacy when pickled, and the base of the leaves can be eaten too. This majestic perennial vegetable makes an attractive addition to any vegetable plot. It is ideal for the flower garden too, attracting bees to its thistle like flowers when left unharvested. Height: 180cm (71). Spread: 75cm (30)
Globe Artichoke 'Green Globe Improved' bears larger, heavier, and more consistent quality globe-shaped heads. The characteristic sharp spines have been greatly reduced in this improved variety.
Globe Artichokes are grown for their tasty, rounded flower heads which are harvested before they bloom. If left unharvested, the spectacular thistle-like blooms make an impressive display and attract throngs of bees to the garden.
With reddish-purple skin, these knobbly, nutty tubers are one of the most rewarding vegetable crops.