The cardoon is used in the perennial border mainly for it's striking foliage and it's large beautiful thistle like pink flowers. The grey, slightly prickly foliage will grow up to 5 feet, dominating and certainly acting as a show plant for any plant lover's garden.

Cardoons are part of the globe artichoke family. They are edible, but don't produce large artichokes and are usually used only as an ornamental plant. If you choose to eat this plant the best part is the stalk, parboiled and fried in butter. The flowers are easily dried and used in flower arrangements.

Keep in mind that this is a tender perennial that may need a little protection from cooler winters. It is best suited to zone 8, 9 12-14, so if you are trying to beat the odds and grow this plant in zone 7 (-18 to12 c) make sure the soil is well drained and protect the roots from the cold. The best way to do this is to place grass or hay clippings around the root system. By doing this, the foliage may be damaged by the winter but at least the roots will survive and the plant will come back next spring. So keep an eye out for this plant, it's definitely worth finding a place for.