Cynara cardunculus
cardoon
Huge, purple, thistle-like flowers from June to September held above enormous clumps of deeply-cut, silvery-green leaves.
This magnificent, architectural plant is perfect towards the back of a mixed or herbaceous border.
For the best results, Cynara cardunculus needs full sun, lots of space and shelter from strong winds.
This magnificent, architectural plant is perfect towards the back of a mixed or herbaceous border.
For the best results, Cynara cardunculus needs full sun, lots of space and shelter from strong winds.
How to care for Cynara cardunculus:
Plant in a sunny spot with well-drained soil, ideally in a location sheltered from strong winds. Cardoons thrive in nutrient-rich soil, so adding compost or well-rotted manure at planting time can help establish strong growth.
Water regularly during the growing season, especially in dry spells, but avoid waterlogging. In autumn, leave the faded flower heads intact as they add winter interest and provide some structural beauty in the garden.
To protect the crown, apply a dry mulch, such as straw, during the winter months, which will also help insulate the plant from frost. Prune back any dead stems in early spring to encourage fresh new growth.
Water regularly during the growing season, especially in dry spells, but avoid waterlogging. In autumn, leave the faded flower heads intact as they add winter interest and provide some structural beauty in the garden.
To protect the crown, apply a dry mulch, such as straw, during the winter months, which will also help insulate the plant from frost. Prune back any dead stems in early spring to encourage fresh new growth.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
1.5m
Eventual spread:
1.2m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
-
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
9cm pot
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3 × 9cm pots
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2 litre pot
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