Artichoke Imperial Star - Cynara Scolymus

The Imperial Star artichoke is an early and vigorous variety that produces 7 to 8 heads per plant of about 1.5 m (5ft), with a sweet and tender flavour. This perennial vegetable plant is cultivated for its round heads, about 12 cm (5in) in diameter, formed of oval, fleshy scales at the base (the leaves) and its floral receptacle, the artichoke heart. Sowing from February to March for a harvest 6 to 7 months later.

The artichoke is a perennial vegetable plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It belongs to the genus Cynara, like the Cardoon - and the Thistle. Known to the Greeks and the Romans since antiquity, it was introduced in France around the 15th century.

It is a plant that, although perennial, is often cultivated for two or three years. It has an upright stem that can reach a height of 2 metres (7 feet) and large, deeply cut leaves. It is its inflorescence, or rather its flower bud, which is harvested before the flower develops, that is consumed.

Coluche said of the artichoke: "It's the only dish where when you're done eating, you have more on your plate than when you started!". This is neither entirely false nor entirely true because, in the artichoke, everything is edible, or almost everything: the heart, with vinaigrette, the base of the leaves, but also the leaf stems which, when blanched, can be consumed like those of the cardoon.

The artichoke has anti-anemic, detoxifying, stimulating, and tonic properties, and contains vitamins A, B1, B2, C. It has a beneficial effect on the liver.

In the garden, the Artichoke thrives in rich and well-draining soil. As a true Mediterranean plant, its worst enemies are humidity and frost. Therefore it is best suited for mild climates and preferably grown on a mound.

Harvest and storage: The harvest of the flower buds should be done as they develop, each year. They should be harvested before the central scales spread apart and consumed as quickly as possible.

Gardener's tip: In regions with harsh winters, protect your plants with a thick layer of dry leaves. Keep a close eye on your plants as aphids love them!