Skip to product information
An image of the plant grown with seed for Cynara Cardoon Vegetable Seeds - Architectural Splendor with Prickly Gray-Green Leaves, Ideal for Soups and Stews, Non-GMO, Perfect to Elevate Garden Aesthetics
  • An image of the plant grown with seed for Cynara Cardoon Vegetable Seeds - Architectural Splendor with Prickly Gray-Green Leaves, Ideal for Soups and Stews, Non-GMO, Perfect to Elevate Garden Aesthetics
Cynara Cardoon Vegetable Seeds - Architectural Splendor with Prickly Gray-Green Leaves, Ideal for Soups and Stews, Non-GMO, Perfect to Elevate Garden Aesthetics
$5.99 CAD
Maturity

90 Days
Sunlight

Full Sun
Watering

Regular

Difficulty

Medium difficulty
Life cycle

Perennial
Grow Zones

7 - 10

Quick Reference

Zones

Plant Hardiness Zones describe the average minimum winter temperature for a region. They tell you where a plant can reliably survive outdoors. For example, Zone 5 can handle colder winters than Zone 9. Matching a plant to your zone increases the chance of long-term success.

Days

  • For food crops: Days to maturity is the expected number of days from planting to first harvest. This helps gardeners plan their growing season and time their harvests.
  • For non-food plants: Days to germination indicates how long it usually takes seeds to sprout under normal conditions. This is key for starting seeds successfully.

Types

  • F1 (Hybrid): A cross between two parent varieties. Hybrids are bred for vigor, uniformity, and specific traits such as disease resistance. Seeds saved from F1 plants don’t grow true to type. That means if you try to regrow them from seed, the plant won't necessarily be the same as last year's
  • OP (Open-Pollinated): Varieties that naturally pollinate and remain stable across generations. Seeds can be saved and replanted with consistent results.
  • HM (Heirloom): An open-pollinated variety that has been handed down for many generations. Heirlooms are valued for flavor, tradition, and genetic diversity.

Grows

  • Outdoors: Well-suited for garden beds, raised beds, or open soil, where natural conditions are stable.
  • Windowsill: Compact plants that thrive in containers indoors, often needing only modest light.
  • Anywhere: Highly adaptable plants that perform reliably in both indoor and outdoor settings.

Lifecycle

  • Annual: Grows, flowers, sets seed, and dies in one growing season. Many vegetables and flowers are annuals.
  • Perennial: Lives for multiple years, regrowing each season after going dormant. Often used in landscaping or long-term food crops.
  • Sp. Perennial (Self-Perennializing): A plant that reseeds itself or self-pollinates, giving the effect of perennial growth even if individual plants live shorter lives.

Size

Indicates the recommended container size or soil depth for best growth.

  • “X″ Pot”: The ideal pot diameter (e.g., 5″ Pot), ensuring enough root space.
  • DS (Deep Soil): Requires planting directly in the ground or in a deep raised bed, as shallow pots restrict growth.
 More Details (Opens New Tab)
  • Unique Appearance: Features large, prickly gray-green arching leaves and a statuesque vase-shaped frame, reaching up to 5 ft in height and 4 ft in width.
  • Optimal Growing Conditions: Thrives in well-drained, sunny locations; germinates best at temperatures of 70-75°F.
  • Harvest Tips: Enjoy the succulent leafstalk, similar in use to celery, best harvested once the plant reaches full size; can be blanched for added tenderness.
  • Versatile Culinary Uses: Delicious in soups and stews, sautéed, or served with dips; boasts an artichoke-like flavor when steamed or braised.
  • Hardy and Robust: Resistant to common garden pests, making it an easier grow and a standout choice for both experienced gardeners and novices.

Transform your garden with the majestic Cynara Cardoon, a plant that offers both visual appeal and culinary versatility. Known for its large, prickly gray-green leaves and impressive height, this Mediterranean native is perfect for adding architectural interest to your garden landscape.

Start your seeds indoors to get a head start on the growing season. Once established, move them outside to a sunny, well-drained location. With regular care, you'll enjoy a bountiful harvest of succulent leafstalks, ideal for enhancing your favorite dishes. Whether you're steaming, braising, or sautéing, the artichoke-like flavor of Cardoon will elevate your culinary creations. Embrace the beauty and bounty of Cynara Cardoon today!
Size
How much seed do I need?

Seeds per gram: 25
Average germination rate: 80%

Package sizes

  • 20 seeds — 16 plants — covers about 144–256 sq. ft.
  • 100 seeds — 80 plants — covers about 720–1,280 sq. ft.

Plant growth and coverage

  • Statuesque, vase-shaped, upright clumping habit with prickly gray‑green arching leaves
  • Height: 120–150 cm (4–5 ft)
  • Spread: 90–120 cm (3–4 ft)
  • Spacing: 90–120 cm (36–48 in) between plants; allow ample room for airflow

Choosing a packet size

  • The 20-seed packet is ideal for home gardeners trialing cardoon or creating a bold focal planting in small to medium beds. It’s enough for a striking border drift or a few clumps in an edible landscape.
  • The 100-seed packet suits large gardens, market growers, or landscapers planning mass plantings for architectural impact and steady harvests of leafstalks. Great for establishing long rows or multiple beds.
GROWING INSTRUCTIONS

Start the seeds indoors 10 to 12 weeks before the last frost date. Use individual peat pots and press the seeds into the soil, covering lightly. Keep the soil moist and ensure medium to full light for optimal growth.

Once the seedlings have grown strong, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions. Transplant outdoors after the last frost, spacing each plant about 5 feet apart to accommodate their large size.

Provide regular watering and full sun for the best results. Harvest the succulent leafstalks once the plant reaches full size, perfect for soups, stews, or sautéed dishes. Enjoy the architectural beauty and culinary delights of this unique plant.
SHIPPING & RETURNS

In Canada, we use fast shipping from our Canadian warehouses. You can expect delivery in 1-3 days.

In the USA, We use our US warehouses, and you can expect your order in 1-3 days, too.

No postaged lettermail or slow shipping from across the world. No customs fees or orders withheld at the border. Tracking numbers for all orders.

We strive to process and ship all orders in a timely manner, working diligently to ensure that your items are on their way to you as soon as possible. Our return policy covers you for late, damaged or defective products.

 Read Our Shipping & Returns Policy

You may also like