Cynara cardunculus

Cardoon

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Robust Mediterranean perennial herb with silvery-green, deeply lobed foliage and large purple thistle flowers. Cultivated for edible stems or striking ornamental impact in gardens.
yard Kitchen garden plants wb_sunny Half-shade / Sun pets Not pet-safe
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Plant Details

Common Name Cardoon
Family Asteraceae
Genus Cynara
Species Cardunculus
Origin Mediterranean Basin
Blooming Purple thistle flowers in late summer
Leaf Color Silver-green, glaucous
Sunlight Half-shade / Sun
Category Kitchen garden plants
Pet Friendly close No
yard

Care & Maintenance

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Soil

Well-drained, sandy-loam soil. Tolerates poor soils and saline conditions.

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Watering

Moderate watering during establishment and summer heat; drought tolerant once mature.

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Sunlight & Care

Full sun required for best growth and flowering; tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

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Fertilization

Minimal fertilization needed. Apply compost or slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

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Pruning

Remove dead leaves and flower heads after blooming to prevent self-seeding if not desired.

Pest Control Aphid Leaf Miner Thrip

These are the insects and pathogens that commonly interact with this plant, including pests, parasites, and organisms typically associated with its care.

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Seasonal Periods

local_florist Flowering Period 4 months
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
agriculture Harvesting Period 3 months
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
eco Leaf Persistence 12 months
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
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Growing Parameters

thermostat
Temperature
23° – 100°
Fahrenheit
Ideal ambient air temperature range for healthy growth
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Humidity
30% – 75%
% relative
Optimal relative air humidity the plant thrives in
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Light (LUX)
2500 – 35000
Lux
Ambient illuminance level at the plant's surface
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Light (PAR)
2000 – 4000
mmol/m²/s
Photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) intensity
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Soil Moisture
20% – 60%
% volumetric
Water content in the growing medium
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Soil EC
300 – 1800
mS/cm
Electrical conductivity (nutrient concentration in soil water)

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