Cardoon Seed

A favorite in French and Italian cooking, Cardoon is a close relative of Artichoke, and in growth shows a similar look. Actually a very attractive large plant in the garden, cardoon is sometimes grown strictly for its ornamental qualities. This is a long-season, cool weather plant. Instead of harvesting the buds as is done for artichoke, the stems are blanched by wrapping before harvest. Boiled in salt water and lemon juice then chilled for a salad, or battered and fried, cardoon has hints of celery and zucchini in its flavor. A perennial in warm climates. Grow much as you would an artichoke.