Found in the wild along the Mediterranean, from Morocco and Portugal to Libya and Croatia, a cardoon is a thistle that tastes like a bitter version of a giant artichoke with small, prickly flower heads.

Where does cardoon grow?

Cardoons prefer a well-drained but moisture-retentive soil and a full sun position. They can be planted out from late April onwards until August/September. Set plants 3 feet x 3 feet apart (90 cm x 90 cm) as they need a lot of space.

Is cardoon the same as globe artichoke?

Globe Artichoke and Cardoon are related but whereas Globe Artichoke is noted for its partly edible flowers, Cardoon is grown as a large blanched leaf cluster. If you have Globe Artichoke don't ever leave the flower heads on or it may kill the plant.