Cardoon

Cardoon (Cynara cardunculus) is a Mediterranean thistle grown for its architectural, deeply cut, gray-green foliage and tall purple flower stalks. It is a perennial in mild climates, though it is often grown as a half-hardy annual; NC State lists a mature height of 3–6 feet and a spread of 2–3 feet ([NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cynara-cardunculus/common-name/cardoon/)). ## Site and Growth Plant cardoon in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Its large, prickly leaves need room to spread, and plants may die back in winter before resprouting from a deep taproot. In hot summers, it may become dormant. ## Edible Stalks The young leaf stalks can be blanched, harvested, cooked, and eaten as a vegetable. Wear gloves when handling spiny stems; smooth-stemmed cultivars are available, but the exact cultivar should be confirmed before assuming a plant is spineless. ## Maintenance Trim older leaves when they lose their upright form. Mulch heavily where winter cold threatens survival, and remove unwanted root growth carefully because the deep taproot can resprout. NC State reports that cardoon is invasive in North Carolina and can form colonies in parts of California, so check local guidance before planting near natural areas.