Colorado Blue Artichoke
Cynara scolymus
kin-R-uh skahl-i-MUS
Edibles: Fruiting Vegetable
Min. Temp
Very Tender: 38°
An easier-to-grow artichoke, Colorado Red Star can be grown as an annual from seed in a wide range of climates. The bracts range from purplish-green to paintbrush strokes of plum, with a perfect globe shape. This a variety that will develop heads early in the first year with just 10 days of cool weather required. Ideal for cold winter locations where overwintering perennial artichokes is difficult.
Appearance
Summer Foliage
Gray-Green
Fall Foliage
Green
Flower Color
Multicolor
Blooming Time
Mid Summer - Late Summer
Habit
Vining
Height
24–36 in
Spread
60–96 in
Form
Composite
Characteristics
Type
Heirloom
Safety
Edible Parts
Growth Rate
Moderate
Tolerance/Resistance
Heat Tolerant, Drought Tolerant
Attracts
Attracts Honeybees & Pollinators; Attracts Beneficial Insects
Uses/Placement
Culinary
Optimal Growing Conditions
Sun Exposure
Full Sun: 8-12 hrs
Soil Texture
Sandy
Soil Drainage
Well-drained
Soil Moisture
Average
Soil PH
Slightly Alkaline: 7.0-7.5
PH Tolerance
Prefers slightly alkaline soil
PH Correction
High pH can reduce nutrient uptake
Soil Amendment(s)
Organic Matter Recommended
Fertilizer
Heavy Feeder
Fertilizer Formula
Rooting & Blooming
Fertilizer Timing
Pre-Fruiting
Micronutrients
Calcium (Ca)
Care
Care Level
Low
Behavior and Propagation
Spreading
Moderate Spreader
Propagation Method
Benefits from Pollinators
Propagation Licensing
Open propagation permitted
Division Timing
Do Not Divide
Fruit and Pollination
Ploidy
Diploid