Globe Artichoke
Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus
Globe artichokes are as much an architectural garden feature as they are a crop — their dramatic silvery-grey foliage and enormous thistle-like flower heads make a statement in any planting scheme. The edible part is the immature flower bud, harvested before it opens, when the thick fleshy scales and tender heart are at their best. Each plant produces 6–10 heads per season from June onwards. Cut the main head first (it's the largest), and the plant will produce smaller side heads over the following weeks. 'Green Globe Improved' is the most commonly grown variety in the UK. Plants are perennial, cropping for 4–5 years before needing replacement. They prefer sunny, sheltered spots with well-drained soil. Mulch heavily in autumn in colder areas to protect the crowns over winter. Propagate by dividing established clumps in spring — select the healthiest outer shoots.
Plan where to grow Globe Artichoke using our vegetable garden planner.
When to Plant Globe Artichoke
Plant globe artichoke in March, April.
Time to Harvest Globe Artichoke
Expect to harvest approximately 12 months after planting, usually from June to September.
Expected Yield
6–10 heads per plant per season once established; first harvest in year 2.
Growing Tips
Perennial that can produce for 5+ years
Pruning Globe Artichoke
Cut harvested stems back to near the base, then cut all stems down in autumn and mulch the crowns over winter; replace plants with rooted offsets every three or four years as they lose vigour.
Common Problems with Globe Artichoke
Earwigs in flower heads
Earwigs crawl into the tightly packed scales of artichoke heads, hiding in the crevices. Shake harvested heads vigorously over a bucket of water before bringing them indoors. You can also trap earwigs by placing upturned pots stuffed with straw on canes near the plants — the earwigs hide inside and can be emptied away each morning.
Aphids on young growth
Black and green aphids often cluster on the tender young shoots and around developing flower buds in spring, weakening growth and potentially spreading viruses. Blast off with a strong jet of water from the hose, or spray with diluted washing-up liquid. Encouraging natural predators like ladybirds and hoverflies provides the best long-term control.
Winter crown damage
Artichoke crowns can be damaged or killed in harsh winters, especially on exposed sites or heavy clay soils where water sits around the roots. In autumn, cut back spent stems and pile a thick mulch of straw, bracken, or bark (at least 15cm deep) over the crowns. In very cold areas, cover with fleece as well. Remove the mulch in spring as new growth appears.
Globe Artichoke: common questions
When should I plant globe artichoke in the UK?
Plant globe artichoke from March to April.
How far apart should I plant globe artichoke?
Space globe artichoke about 90cm apart. It grows to around 1.5m tall.
When is globe artichoke ready to harvest?
In the UK, globe artichoke is usually harvested from June to September. It's ready about 12 months after planting.
Does globe artichoke come back every year?
Yes. Globe Artichoke is a perennial and comes back every year, dying back or slowing down over winter and regrowing in spring.
When should I prune globe artichoke?
Cut harvested stems back to near the base, then cut all stems down in autumn and mulch the crowns over winter; replace plants with rooted offsets every three or four years as they lose vigour.
Is globe artichoke frost hardy?
Only partly. Globe Artichoke is half-hardy: it copes with cold but not frost, so plant it out after the last frost (usually mid to late May) and protect it if frost is forecast.
What crop rotation group is globe artichoke in?
Globe Artichoke is a perennial crop, so it stays in one place and sits outside the usual crop rotation.
Plan your globe artichoke in the allotment planner
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