Cynara scolymus 'Green Globe' (Artichoke)

Globe artichoke is one of those vegetables that doubles as an ornamental plant without even trying. The broad, deeply lobed silver-green leaves can reach three feet long and give the plant a bold, architectural presence in the garden that earns it a place in the ornamental border as readily as the vegetable bed. 'Green Globe' is the classic standard variety, producing large, tightly scaled heads with meaty, flavorful hearts that are the basis of countless Mediterranean dishes.

The Oregon coast is genuinely good artichoke country. The cool, mild, moist climate mirrors the coastal California and Mediterranean conditions where artichokes thrive naturally. In this region they behave as perennials, returning each spring to produce for four to six years from a single planting. Established plants are productive and increasingly vigorous over time, sending up multiple stems for a long harvest window in late spring and early summer. Good drainage is important, especially through the wet winter months.

Start from transplants for the quickest path to your first harvest.