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Genus Cynara

Cynara cardunculus Photo/Illustration: Steve Aitken

sih-NAR-ah

In the genus Cynara are ten or so species of clumping perennials from the Mediterranean, Africa, and the Canary Islands grown for their spiny, or at least pointed, large and silvery leaves and tall, thistle-like flowers. Grow them for their imposing growth habit in a border or as specimens.
Noteworthy characteristics: Silvery foliage and thistle-like flowers on tall plants. Flowers attract insects and are nice in dried arrangements. Some species are edible.
Care: Grow in a sheltered spot in full sun with well-drained soil. Give Cynara plenty of space. Removing the flowering stems will keep the attention on the architectural foliage, but is not mandatory.
Propagation: Sow seed in a cold frame or divide in spring, or take root cuttings in winter.
Problems: Aphids and slugs can be troublesome, as can gray mold and root rot.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Cynara

Cynara cardunculus
(Cardoon) Be the first to rate this plant

Hardiness Zones:

Cardoon is an architectural splendor with bold texture, thanks to its large, prickly, almost dagger-shaped gray-green arching leaves and a statuesque, vase-shaped frame. It is topped with round, purple, thistlelike flowers in midsummer. Cardoon can reach up to 5 feet tall and 4 feet wide.