Cynara cardunculusCardoon, Prickly artichoke, Globe artichoke

Once a staple of the Victorian vegetable garden, Cynara cardunculus is now highly prized as a striking ornamental plant that makes a bold statement in the border. Its large, silvery-grey, deeply cut leaves create impressive mounds that provide texture and colour throughout the season. From the centre of the clump, thick, towering stems emerge, crowned with artichoke-like flower heads from June onwards. By late summer, the scaly buds open into dramatic, purple, thistle-like flowers that demand attention. If left on the plant, the dried flower heads continue to add interest through the winter months, looking especially striking on frosty mornings. This plant is not suited for a small border—its large clumps of foliage can span a metre in diameter—but it excels as a dramatic focal point in larger spaces, offering a bold contrast to nearby perennials. Its strong structure provides year-round appeal, even after other plants have died back. Cynara cardunculus is also a fantastic choice for wildlife, attracting beneficial pollinators with its thistle-like flowers and offering food to birds like finches who enjoy raiding the seed heads. The flower heads also make a striking addition to indoor vase displays. Awarded the RHS Award of Garden Merit, this plant grows to a height of 1.5-2m (4.9-6.5ft) with a spread of 1.2m (4ft). Please note: Plant height and spread are seasonal, so we list by pot size rather than a fixed plant size. The size of the plant delivered may vary depending on the season, and the images provided are for illustration only.

Growing Information

Grow in freely draining fertile soil in full sun with shelter from strong winds. Provide sturdy support stakes early in spring as growth is rapid. Plants growing in colder regions benefit from a dry winter mulch.