Globe artichoke, Cynara cardunculus 'Scolymus Group' is a dramatic perennial plant grown for its edible immature flowerheads, which are produced from July onwards. It's also highly ornamental, bearing striking silvery, thistle-like foliage and tall flower stems topped by fat thistle buds. If not harvested, these open into large purple thistle flowers which attract masses of bees. The dead flowerheads can be left on the plants to provide additional interest in winter, and may lure in a flock of finches.
Grow Cynara cardunculus 'Scolymus Group' in moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Plants are easily raised from seed, or propagated by division in spring. Snails may be a problem for young shoots.
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Sow
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Plant
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Flowers
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Divide
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Cynara ‘Scolymus group’ and wildlife
Cynara ‘Scolymus group’ is known for attracting bees, beneficial insects, butterflies/moths and other pollinators. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers.
Is known to attract Bees
Bees
Is known to attract Beneficial insects
Beneficial insects
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Is known to attract Butterflies/Moths
Butterflies/Moths
Is known to attract Other pollinators
Other pollinators
Is Cynara ‘Scolymus group’ poisonous?
Cynara ‘Scolymus group’ has no toxic effects reported.
