Cynara cardunculus

Often referred to as an architectural plant because of its large silver outward-arching leaves, Cardoon is an attractive member of the Daisy Family closely related to artichokes and thistles. We absolutely love its bold lines and form in garden beds or as a thriller plant in mixed containers. Beautiful large blue flowers are borne atop tall stalks after the plant has been established for a year or two. Native to the Mediterranean Region, Cardoon has benefited greatly from hybridization through the years which has rendered it spineless and much more elegant.