Native to the Mediterranean, the artichoke is the edible flower bud of a thistle-like plant in the sunflower family which is eaten as a vegetable. The artichoke grows wild in the south of Europe and is cultivated in the United States, primarily in California. The leaves proceed from the base of the stem and are long and somewhat spiny. The stem is up to 1 m (3 ft) high, branched, with large heads of violet-colored (sometimes white), thistle-like flowers at the summits of the branches. The thickened receptacle (heart) and fleshy bases of the scales (leaves) of the immature flower are the portions eaten.

(AR02) ARTICHOKE VIOLETTO CHIOGGIA (85 days) Spineless purple variety with deep purple coloring. Much sought after export of Italy! Exceptional, flavorful and hardy for northern growers! Was considered and still is the Artichoke of the Aristocrats in old Italy. Pickled small they have no choke. We are proud to have been the first to introduce this heirloom mainstream to the U.S. market. 50 seeds avg. - $2.59 Quantity : Size : 2.5 gram packet $2.59 50 gram bulk packet $11.95 500 gram bulk container $76.95

(AR03) ARTICHOKE LARGE ROMANESCO (85 days) Heirloom Italian variety well known for plants that produce good yields of very large and very flavorful bronze and purple artichokes. Native of the Romagna region of old Italy. 2.5 grams approx 60 seeds - $2.59 Quantity : Size : 2.5 gram packet $2.59 50 gram bulk packet $11.95 500 gram bulk container $91.95

(AR05) ARTICHOKE GREEN GLOBE (88 days) Most common artichoke cultivar used in commercial production, especially in the U.S., with sharp spines greatly reduced and larger, heavier bearing, consistent quality globe-shaped heads. 4 grams approx 100 seeds UNTREATED - $2.39 Quantity : Size : 4 gram packet $2.39 50 grams bulk packet $5.95