artichoke 'Purple Globe'
purple globe artichoke or Cynara cardunculus (Scolymus Group) 'Romanesco'
A large and striking perennial vegetable with silvery-green deeply toothed leaves that's good-looking enough to grow in the ornamental garden. The deep purple flower buds are cut from summer onwards, with each plant producing up to 10 artichokes a season. The plant stays productive for many years given a free-drained soil and a sunny spot.
How to care for artichoke Romanesco:
Plant globe artichokes in fertile, well-drained soil, ideally improved with garden compost or well-rotted manure before planting. On heavier soils, mix in grit to the wider planting area to aid drainage. Water well after planting and keep soil moist during the growing season until plants are fully established.
In the first year, remove any flower buds that form to allow the plant to focus on root development. Protect the crown over winter with a thick mulch of straw or leaves, especially in colder areas.
Artichokes are best harvested in their second year, picking the buds while still tight and before the scales start to open. Cut the stem just below the bud using a sharp knife. Every four to five years, divide and replant clumps to maintain vigour and productivity.
In the first year, remove any flower buds that form to allow the plant to focus on root development. Protect the crown over winter with a thick mulch of straw or leaves, especially in colder areas.
Artichokes are best harvested in their second year, picking the buds while still tight and before the scales start to open. Cut the stem just below the bud using a sharp knife. Every four to five years, divide and replant clumps to maintain vigour and productivity.
Sowing instructions:
Sow from late February in a greenhouse or on a sunny windowsill in pots of freely-draining seed compost and keep at 15°C (59°F). Grow on young seedlings and plant out where they are protected from strong winds in early summer.
Eventual height:
1m
Eventual spread:
0.45m
Position:
Full sun
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
approx 40 seeds
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