Cardoon (Cynara cardunculus) packet of 20 seeds, organic

Family:  Aster (Asteraceae) Hardy to Zones 7 to 9, often grown as an annual maturing in 100 days. Native to the Mediterranean, attaining a height of 5 feet in the first year, eventually rising to 8 feet with full maturity. Showy, silvery-leaved, like giant thistles but less spiny, cardoon is grown primarily as a vegetable.  The blanched, fleshy leaf stems and midribs are steamed or baked and eaten like artichoke hearts.  Traditional uses of tea of dried leaves (TWM):  reduced LDL cholesterol and used in weight control programs.  Source of cynarine.  Plant prefers a sunny position in regular garden soil with moderate watering.  Sow seed in warm soil, about as deep as it is wide, tamp and keep warm and moist until germination, which occurs in 7 to 10 days.  Transplant to 3 feet apart. 20 seeds per packet, Certified Organically Grown