Wildflowers
Cynara cardunculus - Cardoon
Cardoon
The cardoon is worthy border contender, producing both height, structure and highly ornamental flower buds and flowers, which make unique cut flowers, and dry well. The silver foliage is just as striking as the flowers. Works well from the centre to the back of a border, where it will naturally draw the eye.
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Position
- Full Sun
- Height
- 2.4m
- Spread
- 1m
Growing calendar
Sowing & growing
Feb-March, sow seeds in moist seed compost, under glass. Keep at 16°C. When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant into pots and grow on. Acclimatise plants before planting out when danger of frost has passed. Plant out with 150cm of spacing, into well-prepared soil, fertilised with well-rotted manure. Keep feeding with general purpose fertiliser and keep well-watered and weed free.
Aftercare
Cut flowers regularly to keep plant flowering, as well as to prevent self-seeding. Mulch surrounding ground with straw in cold winters.
Gallery
Ref. SEC008