Starla sent pictures of her artichoke blooms. To enjoy the exotic blooms you have to forgo the harvest. After looking at these pictures, you might pick the okra and eggplant out of your garden for dinner instead.
Looking top down at an artichoke blossom
Side view of artichoke blossom
Artichoke Bud
Artichoke plants benefit us in two ways as beautiful ornamentals and as a food source.
For those two reasons, we have grown this plant in the edible landscape on top of the hugelkultur in semi shade and they have returned for several years bearing as many as 7 artichokes per plant.
Pretty artichoke growing at Raincatcher’s in our edible landscape
We are often asked if the artichokes on the hugelkultur are cardoons. Both plants have a beautiful thistle like bloom and a striking architectural appearance in landscapes. They reach heights of 3 to 6 feet but the cardoon has a rangier growth habit and the edible part is the stem not the flower.
Now what will it be, blossom or artichoke? Feast your eyes or your stomach?
We vote both! Let some flower and cook the rest.
Here’s how Beverly Allen cooks the artichokes she harvests. https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/amazing-roasted-artichokes/
Ann Lamb with input from Beverly Allen
Pictures by Starla Willis
DALLAS GARDEN BUZZ 
I had the most amazing grilled artichokes at Parigi Restaurant on Oak Lawn. They steam theirs first, then grill the halves. I’m definitely trying Beverly’s recipe link. They sound perfect for dinner tonight.
Thank you, bet the recipe works out well for you!