Cynara cardunculus

Architectural perennial of the thistle/artichoke family…clump of stunning silver leaves gives rise to a 6' stalk crowned with clusters of showy, bright purple thistle flowers in mid summer. Full sun, average water…easy to grow. Stems are edible with artichoke flavor. Referred to as invasive in some areas…but we have only had ONE reseeder in 11 years (and our gardens are very inviting to wandering seed!). Deadheading before the seeds ripen would eliminate any potential of reseeding.