The cardoon is a beast of a thistle but its electric-blue flowers are a magnet for beesWhat is it? The cardoon (Cynara cardunculus) is an architectural beast of a thistle, with decorative silvery toothed leaves. It’s in the same family as the globe artichoke, but it’s the stems, not the flower buds, that are prized by Mediterranean cooks.Any good varieties? There are few options in the UK, but Franchi Seeds sells the varieties ‘Bianco Avorio’ and ‘Gobbo di Nizza’, while Chiltern Seeds offers heirloom cardoon ‘Rouge d’Alger’ with attractive red-blushed stalks. For young plants by mail order, try Victoriana Nursery. Continue reading…
Source : theguardian.com
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