Globe Artichoke Seeds (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus)

Globe Artichoke was included on one of Thomas Jefferson's first lists of vegetables grown at Monticello in 1770. His Garden Book sporadically charted the first to "come to table" and the "last dish of artichokes" from 1794 to 1825. A native of southern Europe in cultivation since the 1500s, Globe Artichokes may require winter protection, or they can be grown as annuals. Jefferson-documented: This plant was documented by Thomas Jefferson in his Garden Book, Notes on the State of Virginia, or other writings.

Sow seeds indoors during mid-late winter at 70 degrees F, transplant to 3" pots once they have several true leaves, then harden off and transplant outdoors to rich, well-drained soil 3-4 weeks before the last frost. The edible "chokes" can be harvested by mid-summer, or will develop into a purple, thistle-like flower. Approximately 12 seeds per packet.