Description
Grow your own Globe Artichoke (Cynara scolymus) from certified organic seed grown right here in Australia at Greenpatch Organic Seeds. This striking perennial vegetable produces the prized edible flower heads used steamed, in casseroles and as preserved artichoke hearts — a gourmet delicacy straight from your own patch.
A single Globe Artichoke plant reaches 1.5 metres high and 1.5 metres wide, returning year after year and producing tender heads from November through December.
Key Features
- Certified organic seed — grown at Greenpatch Organic Seeds, free from synthetic chemicals
- Hardy perennial — returns each season, going dormant in cooler months and reshooting in spring
- Architectural garden plant — bold silver-grey foliage that looks as good as it tastes
- Gourmet harvest — plump heads perfect for steaming, preserving and casseroles
- Approx. 20 seeds per packet — 20 seeds per gram
How to Grow Globe Artichoke
Globe Artichoke is best sown into punnets or small pots during early autumn, then transplanted into the garden through autumn and winter. In cold regions, start seed in spring instead.
Sowing
Sow autumn to spring into punnets or small pots, then transplant once seedlings are established.
Soil & Feeding
A heavy feeder — plant into very fertile, well-composted soil for best results.
Growth Habit
Slow to start, but once the root system establishes the plants grow away quickly.
Harvest
Heads begin forming November–December. Pick while tight and firm for the best eating.
Dormancy & Dividing
Globe Artichoke is a perennial that goes semi-dormant in temperate zones and fully dormant in cold regions. During dormancy the crown can be lifted and transplanted to a new spot, or divided into multiple plants to expand your patch.
Pests
Snails and slugs are the main threat while plants are young. Use snail pellets where needed to keep numbers down until the plants are well established.
Be patient early on — Globe Artichokes take their time to settle in, but reward you with vigorous growth and years of harvests once established.
Product Specifications
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Globe Artichoke |
| Botanical Name | Cynara scolymus |
| Seed Type | Certified Organic |
| Grown By | Greenpatch Organic Seeds (Australia) |
| Plant Type | Perennial vegetable |
| Mature Size | 1.5 m high × 1.5 m wide |
| Sowing Season | Autumn to Spring |
| Days to Maturity | 210 days |
| Harvest Period | November–December |
| Seeds per Packet | Approx. 20 seeds |
| Seed Count | 20 seeds per gram |
| Pack Options | Home Garden Packet / Bulk Seed 5g |
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I sow Globe Artichoke seeds in Australia?
Sow from autumn to spring. In temperate zones, early autumn sowing into punnets works best; in cold regions, start seed in spring to avoid the harshest weather.
How long do Globe Artichokes take to mature?
Allow around 210 days to maturity, with the first heads forming from November through December.
Are Globe Artichokes perennial?
Yes. They return year after year, going semi-dormant in temperate zones and fully dormant in cold regions. The crown can be divided during dormancy to create more plants.
What kind of soil do artichokes need?
They are heavy feeders and need very fertile, well-composted soil. Rich soil and patience during the establishment phase deliver the strongest plants.
What pests should I watch for?
Snails and slugs are the main issue while plants are young. Use snail pellets where needed until the plants are well established.
How are Globe Artichokes used in the kitchen?
The heads are a prized delicacy, most often steamed, added to casseroles, or preserved as artichoke hearts.