Violet Artichoke seeds
Violet artichoke is a French heirloom that can be grown as an ornamental or harvested for its bulbs. The artichokes themselves are a rich violet color and medium in size. The flavor is similar to a traditional artichoke but with a slight nuttiness to them. Each plant will produce 3-5 artichokes. If left to bloom, the choke will open and reveal a bright purple hair-like flower. The bees go crazy for these! Artichokes are a thistle and closely related to the sunflower. They are also perennial. In warmer climates, they will come back each year with 0 effort on your part. In the colder regions, you can cover them with straw, tarp, wood chips, etc. We bring ours indoors and store it somewhere cool, but not cold. This allows it to come back when we bring it outdoors for the Spring. Artichokes are great seasoned and grilled, boiled, and eaten with aioli or melted butter, or made into the infamous artichoke and spinach dip.
Seed count: 10
Botanic name:
Cynara scolymus
Plant spacing:
6-8 feet
Color:
Green foliage, olive green heads with purple tinge, bright purple foliage
Sowing depth:
1/2 inch
Sun requirements:
Full sun / part shade
Utilization:
The prized heads are the main reason for growing artichokes. They're delcious and versatile in the kitchen. If left to bloom, the heads will produce a large light purple bloom that acts as an incredibly powerful attractant to bees.
Frost hardy:
Yes
Maturity days:
85-95 days
Life cycle:
Perennial
Can I start indoors:
Yes
Container friendly:
Yes
Other names:
Violet De Provence Artichoke
Vine Habit:
