Cynara scolymus ( Imperial Star Artichoke )

‘Imperial Star’ is an excellent variety to grow as an annual, and produces a good crop the first year. Buds are spineless, 3-4 inches across, and glossy green. When starting from seed, do everything you can to induce rapid growth in the plants, because in the end it will result in a bigger harvest. Start seeds inside between February and March, and transplant out in 8 weeks, after the soil has warmed and there is no danger of frost. 20% of the plants will probably not produce flowers, so cull the smaller ones on transplanting. To harvest: cut the flowers before they begin to open.

Important Info : Fleshy flowers are the edible portion of artichokes.

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Characteristics

Cultivar: Imperial Star  
Family: Asteraceae  
Size: Height: 0 ft. to 6 ft.
Width: 0 ft. to 4 ft.  
Plant Category: annuals and biennials, vegetables,  
Plant Characteristics:  
Foliage Characteristics:  
Flower Characteristics: unusual,  
Flower Color: purples,  
Tolerances:  


Requirements


Bloomtime Range: not applicable  
USDA Hardiness Zone: 8 to 10  
AHS Heat Zone: Not defined for this plant  
Light Range: Part Sun to Full Sun  
pH Range: Not defined for this plant  
Soil Range: Sandy Loam to Loam  
Water Range: Normal to Normal  





Plant Care

Fertilizing

Light

Watering

Planting

Problems

Miscellaneous

Plant Images


The Backyard Gardener

Written by The Backyard Gardener

Founder of Backyard Gardener. Sharing trusted, practical gardening expertise and plant care advice online for over 25 years.

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