The cardoon is a thistle-like plant, very similar in appearance to
the Globe artichoke, but is grown as an annual. The seeds are sown in
early spring in a hotbed or cold frame and the plants transplanted
later to the open ground. The cardoon should be planted in rows 3 feet
apart and 18 inches apart in the row on rich soil, where it can secure
plenty of moisture and make rapid growth. Toward autumn the leaves are
drawn together and the center blanched in the same manner as endive.
If intended for winter use, the leaves are not blanched in the garden,
but the plants are lifted with considerable earth adhering to the roots
and stored closely in a dark pit or cellar to blanch. The blanched leaf
stems are used for making salads, soups, and stews.--(F. B. 255.)