Cynara cardunculus
Cardoon 
 

A truly magnificent herbaceous perennial, worthy of a place in the garden for it's leaves alone which start off silvery grey, with deeply divided edges, the foliage forms a large clump and the leaves mature to a large keeping the silvery colour.

From this mound of foliage stiff and stout grey stems tower above to reveal large, globular purple thistle heads, these large flower heads unravel to reveal fine, pale purple tubular petals which come together to give a globe of purple.

A fine and elegant addition to the border, best grown in a large open area where it is able to spread, this may require 1m or so to give adequate room. It will grow in most well drained soils and is best in full sun. The stems can be left through winter to give shelter for insects and add interest.