Artichoke ‘Violet de Provence’ Seeds – “Cynara scolymus”

🌿 Artichoke ‘Violet de Provence’ – Elegant edible thistle with a French twist!
This stunning heirloom from southern France brings gourmet flair and visual drama to the garden. ‘Violet de Provence’ produces tender, globe-shaped buds in shades of deep purple and green — perfect for steaming, grilling, or adding rustic beauty to bouquets. With its deeply lobed silvery foliage and sculptural form, it’s a showstopper in kitchen gardens and edible landscapes alike.

🌱 How to Grow:

Sowing Time:
Late winter to early spring (July–September) — or sow in late summer (February–March) for overwintering in mild regions.

Germination:
10–21 days at 18–22°C
Sow seeds 1–1.5 cm deep in trays or pots. Keep moist and warm.
Transplant when seedlings have 3–4 true leaves.

🌞 Position:

Full sun — needs at least 6 hours of sunlight a day
Choose a sheltered spot to protect from wind.

🪨 Soil:

Rich, well-drained soil enriched with compost and aged manure.
pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline (6.5–7.5)
Avoid heavy clay or soggy soil.

💧 Watering:

Regular — water deeply and consistently, especially during dry spells.
Mulch well to keep roots cool and moist.
Do not allow soil to dry out during bud formation.

🌼 Harvest Time:

Artichokes are biennial to short-lived perennials.

• First buds appear in the second year, or in the first year if planted early.

• Harvest when buds are firm and tight — before they start to open.

📏 Height & Spread:

120–150 cm tall
90–120 cm wide
Large, architectural plants with bold foliage and tall bud stalks.

🌿 Top Tips:

✔️ Cut buds early for eating — leave a few to bloom for stunning purple thistle flowers
✔️ Feed monthly with compost tea or a balanced fertiliser
✔️ Protect from heavy frost in very cold areas
✔️ Cut back in winter after flowering for fresh spring growth
✔️ Allow space — these beauties need room to stretch!

🐝 Pollinator Friendly:

If allowed to flower, the large purple blooms are a magnet for bees and butterflies!

🍴 Why Grow Violet de Provence?

✔️ Gorgeous purple artichokes with gourmet flavour
✔️ Adds texture and elegance to edible gardens
✔️ Delicious steamed, grilled, roasted, or pickled
✔️ Doubles as an ornamental with silvery leaves and striking buds
✔️ Can last for years with proper care and cutting back

A French heirloom with flavour and flair!
Grow your own edible elegance and enjoy garden-to-plate luxury with Artichoke ‘Violet de Provence’. 🌿💜🇫🇷