What is it?

[jacob]

I keep seeing something in people's lotties. It's 3-4 ft tall and has long, large fairly spiky leaves growing up from the base. A bit like rhubarb with attitude. I can't think what it is. Can someone give me a clue?

(Apologies, I suspect the answer is really obvious, but at the moment I can't work it out.)

[binley100]

Globe artichoke ?

[binley100]

like this .......?

[jacob]

Hmmm. Probably (I should have thought of that). The leaves look right, although the ones I've seen about seem a bit more upright.

Does that mean that globe artichokes are planted once and crop annually? Are they low maintenance? Might stock a couple in a corner somewhere.

Thanks (any alternatives suggestions also welcome!)

[binley100]

Yup they are a perennial. They can be grown from seed or an offshoot from an established one can be planted. First year just cut off main bud when it grows, then you should be able to crop the next year. Main bud first then side buds, before they start to open. Look out for black fly.

[Florence Fennel]

Glad you posted that pic Binley. I've got one growing in the top corner of my garden that I reserve as a wildlife area. I remember planting some GA seeds years ago out of the way, but never saw them again. I've obviously got one now! Growing never ceases to surprise me.

[Nicos]

jacob- it's most likely to be a Globe Artichoke- but Cardoons look very similar

[Glutton4...]

jacob- it's most likely to be a Globe Artichoke- but Cardoons look very similar

If not, exactly the same!