Hi Gang I totally forgot what I planted here. Can somebody who is into gardening, California Natives, or anything like that please get back to me to tell me what this beast is? It is several feet tall and I am reluctant to cut it down just yet. Looks nice.
Hope all is well.
Kim Isaac Greenblatt
Apr 22 2012
What is this growing in my backyard please?
Hi, Kim -
It’s an artichoke. It’s a perennial vegetable (it dies back to the root after producing its fruit), and will spread if you don’t keep it in check. Chop and drop the stalk and leaves after they turn brown.
You can sauté the young tender buds in garlic and olive oil and eat them whole, or wait ’til they mature, steam it until soft , and eat the tender inside of the interior leaves (with a nice cheese or yogurt dip) until you get to the heart – but if you just let them go to seed, they’ll form a stunning bright purple thistle head – lovely but no longer edible.
That’s an artichoke. Steam it ad enjoy one leaf at a time.
Thank you, Tricia! I have and it was delicious! Kim
Thank you, Bruce. My apologies for not getting back to you sooner. You were one of the early ones who correctly identified and helped out on this. Thanks again for hosting the Transition/Time Exchange Pizza Party as well! You are the best! Kim