Artichoke Violet de Provence (25 seeds)

Artichoke - Violet de Provence

Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus

Artichoke 'Violet de Provence' is a classic 19th-century French heirloom variety prized for its tender, slightly nutty-flavoured, violet-purple buds. Growing as a tall perennial with striking silvery-green foliage, it thrives in full sun and produces multiple small-to-medium heads that are often choke-free, making them particularly easy and enjoyable to prepare. An outstanding variety for steaming, grilling, or eating raw, with genuine ornamental appeal in the garden.

A long-lived perennial that produces reliably for five to seven years when well established, 'Violet de Provence' performs best in fertile, well-drained soil with consistent moisture. Harvest buds while scales are tightly closed for the best eating quality. Cutting plants back after harvest encourages a second flush of smaller buds six to eight weeks later.

Planting Season: Spring
Sow: Indoors in trays at 18–20°C; transplant after frost risk passes
Spacing: 60–90 cm apart
Height: 1.2–1.5 m; tall and architectural
Germination: 14–21 days at 18–20°C
Harvest: 120 days; when buds are firm and scales tightly closed
Flavour: Tender and slightly nutty; excellent steamed, grilled, or raw

25 Seeds