is a native of the Mediterranean region. The artichoke is a perennial plant, member of the thistle group of the sunflower (Compositae) family. In full growth, the plant spreads to cover an area about two meters in diameter and reaches a height of 1-1/2 meters. Its long, arching, deeply serrated leaves give the plant a fern-like appearance. The so called "vegetable" that is eaten is actually the plant's flower bud. If allowed to flower, the blossoms measure up to 1 foot in diameter and are beautiful violet-blue color. The size of the bud depends upon where it is located on the plant. The largest, as usual are the "terminal" buds produced at the end of the long central stems. Buds become smaller towards the lower stem.
Being perennial, they continue to yield for five to ten years. Each cropping cycle is initiated b
y "cutting back" to stimulate development of new shoots. The main propagation or reproduction method for planting artichokes is with root sections attached to basal stem pieces. These cuttings which are often referred to as "stumps," are obtained from well established fields which are scheduled for replanting.
y "cutting back" to stimulate development of new shoots. The main propagation or reproduction method for planting artichokes is with root sections attached to basal stem pieces. These cuttings which are often referred to as "stumps," are obtained from well established fields which are scheduled for replanting. Though artichokes are available throughout the year, peak season is between March and May. The harvesting is done entirely by hand and artichokes on the same plant mature at different times, the same field will be harvested every seven days during peak season and so call for a high labor cost.
Artichokes are a delicious fit for a healthy lifestyle. One large artichoke contains only 25 calories, no fat, 170 milligrams of potassium and is a good source of vitamin C, folate, magnesium and dietary fiber.
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