Artichokes – open-pollinated seeds for Mediterranean flowering vegetables with aromatic, edible buds. The vigorous, perennial plants with their silvery-green leaves are well suited to sunny, sheltered positions in the garden. They need plenty of space and well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Depending on the climate, they can be sown under cover or directly outdoors. Harvest takes place before the flower buds open. If some buds are left on the plants, they develop into purple flowers that provide food for bees and other pollinators.