Artichoke Is Native To The Mediterranean Region And Also An Herb

Artichokes are native in the Mediterranean region. This plant has been grown for centuries in low lying areas and are a large part of not only the Mediterranean landscape. The Mediterranean countries use this specie in a variety of culinary dishes. There are many other countries that grow this herb member. Spain, France, Italy, China, South American countries and a few varieties are grown in the United States.

Leaves And Stem

This vegetable can be grown from seeds. There are different varieties and the plants will adapt to a wide range of soil conditions. The ideal situation for growing artichokes is to take shoots off the mother plant. Here are a couple of important suggestions. If you are replanting the shoots, prune back to around six inches. You will also want to prune back the mother plant, so it will continue its growth pattern. The key to healthy plants is to make sure they are watered regularly. Don't put them in a soggy soil as this will kill the specimen. The soil does need to be well drained. The plant loves full sun and also can be incorporated in a landscape area. If you are planting in a vegetable garden, give the plant enough area to grow. You will need some space as you should plant the rows at least three to three and a half feet apart. The depth should be about four or five inches, and each plant specimen about one foot to one and a half feet apart. One of the main ingredients to having a successful crop or even a few plants, is a large amount of natural compost. This plant specimen will thrive with natural compost.

In order for the flowers to emerge, there does need to be a cooling period. This is one of the problems in a warmer or tropical climate. If the plants are left out in the heat, the heat will destroy the crop.

A popular variety grown in the United States is the Jerusalem. It will grow well in zones three through nine. The plants are tall and resemble the Sunflower family. They can actually mature six to nine feet tall. The Jerusalem is considered a perennial and can be planted throughout a landscape with other vegetables, herbs or evergreen shrubs. Many of the plants in the gallery of plants section will compliment the artichoke specimen. This is a great specimen to put in front of a staggered or straight row of evergreen trees or larger shrubs. A nice variegated shrub will also create a colorful garden area.

In colder climates, the seeds or cuttings can be put in the ground after the last frost. In the late fall you will want to protect the plants. A light weight mulch such as leaves will protect your plant or plants. Do not cover any part of the crown of the plant. In the early spring around March, the plant can begin to be uncovered, to allow the specimen to get ready for its new growth. If you are planning a vegetable garden this spring or fall, in the simple solutions section there is a page on planning your vegetable garden.

Close Up

The photo above shows you a close up of the leaves. Notice some brown spots on the leaves. This is a sign that the Artichoke has been around for awhile and should be prepared soon. Whether you are planting in the ground or buying from a store or market, you will want to be aware of brown spots. The leaves should have as much green on them as possible to be at a good stage for eating. There are many wonderful recipes for using this herb in a variety of culinary dishes. There are two ways I love to prepare this vegetable. One is to steam it for thirty to forty minutes. I apply olive oil to the leaves and stick some fresh garlic cloves in the leaves. This is a very nutritional side dish or appetizer. I also like to use the most inside of the plant, the heart, and marinate it up to one to two weeks in the refrigerator. You can keep it in a closed container. Add some fresh garlic cloves, some basil, garlic chives, a few sprigs of fresh oregano and some cayenne or banana peppers. This is a nice side dish to go with any meal.

The artichoke is known to help with lower cholesterol, and is a good source of vitamins for liver function. This is one herb or vegetable that can benefit many people. Do you have a great recipe using this herb? We would love to see Mediterranean recipes, as this specimen is so popular in this geographic location. Feel free to share your own special regional recipe, so others that visit this site, can enjoy a dish from your kitchen. The Artichoke is definitely able to grow in a variety of climates and also provides us with nutritional value. A great addition to our gardens or diet!