Product Description
A very early purple artichoke bred specifically for annual production from seed – enjoy stunning purple-green buds just months after sowing. Plants grow 1–3 feet tall with a naturally variable habit, all producing high yields of vibrant purple to greenish-purple buds. Each plant delivers 1–3 large primary buds averaging 3–4 inches in diameter, followed by 5–7 secondary buds at 2–3 inches. Developed by the same breeder who created Imperial Star. Perennial in Zone 7 and warmer; otherwise grown as an annual. A true showstopper – the striking purple color adds gourmet elegance to any dish.
Basic Information
Latin Name : Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus
Days to Maturity : 65 – 75 days (from transplant)
Life Cycle : Annual (perennial in warm climates)
Hybrid Status : Open Pollinated
Product Specifications
Plant Height : 1 – 3 feet (30 – 90 cm)
Packet Size : 25 seeds
Seeds per Pound (avg.) : 9,600
Primary Bud Diameter : 3 – 4 inches
Secondary Bud Diameter : 2 – 3 inches
Light Requirement : No specific needs – thrives in any weather
Soil Type : Very fertile, well‑drained soil; pH 6.5 – 7.0 preferred
Growing Information
Germination Temperature : 65 – 85°F (18 – 29°C)
Germination Time : 5 – 10 days
Sowing Method : Sow directly outdoors after the last frost. Lightly cover with soil, water gently, and keep moist until seeds sprout. For earliest harvest, start indoors 8 weeks before transplanting.
Spacing in Garden : 2 – 3 feet apart; rows 3 – 6 feet apart
Cold Treatment : Benefits from 10 days of 45 – 50°F (7 – 10°C) to trigger budding. In mild climates, overwintering naturally achieves this.
Mild Climates : Where winter lows stay above 14°F (-10°C), sow in fall for spring harvest.
Hardiness Zones : Perennial in Zone 7+; annual in all other zones.
Harvest : Cut buds at desired size before bracts begin to open.
Other Information
Pest Resistance : Exceptionally resistant – aphids and other common pests are rarely seen, even in peak growing season.
Disease Resistance : Outstanding tolerance to fungal diseases; powdery mildew and other common issues are virtually non‑existent with minimal air circulation.
Special Notes : One of the earliest-bearing purple artichokes – harvest stunning colored buds in record time. Developed by the same breeder as the legendary Imperial Star. High-yielding – produces more primary buds per plant than standard varieties. The striking purple color intensifies when cooked, making it a gourmet showpiece. Perfect for fresh eating, steaming, roasting, or grilling. Low-maintenance and highly productive – ideal for home gardeners and small farms alike.
