Artichoke seeds

The Artichoke – Cynara scolymus – from the Asteraceae family is a thistle cultivated as a vegetable for its floral bud. The bracts – leaves of the artichoke - and the floral receptacle – bottom of the artichoke – offer a very subtle flavour to gourmets. The seeds are sown in April and spaced 1m (3ft) apart in all directions. The plant stands at 2m (7ft) from the ground, and its flowers form large blue-violet thistles. The Artichoke 'Gros Vert de Laon' produces large green heads all summer. Very easy to grow, it fears frost and humidity. Rich in vitamin B9, the Artichoke is an ally for stimulating the liver and aiding digestion.