Unit
| Graduated prices | |
|---|---|
| From 100 seeds for €0,060 per seed | |
| From 250 seeds for €0,048 per seed | |
| From 500 seeds for €0,044 per seed | |
| From 1000 seeds for €0,040 per seed | |
Cynara scolymus 'Grosse von Laon' is a beautiful, classic artichoke variety beloved for its culinary value and striking ornamental qualities. This impressive perennial combines robust gray-silver foliage with dark, almost deep blue flowers that contrast sharply with the foliage. This makes Grosse von Laon not only a delicious vegetable but also a real eye-catcher in the ornamental garden.
This variety is among the larger artichokes and is known for its vigorous growth, generous flower buds, and long-lasting productivity when properly cared for. For gardeners who enjoy a combination of edible and ornamental plants, the Grosse von Laon is an excellent choice.
The Grosse von Laon artichoke forms broad rosettes with long, deeply incised leaves in a striking silver-gray hue. This elegant foliage has an almost sculptural appearance and instantly gives the garden a Mediterranean feel. In summer, tall flower stalks develop with large, green buds that, if not harvested, open into brilliant dark blue to purple-blue flowers.
These flowers are not only beautiful to look at but also attract many pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. This makes Grosse von Laon a perfect fit for a biodiverse garden, a Mediterranean border, or a modern vegetable garden with ornamental value.
Although the plant is ornamental, the artichoke remains primarily a prized delicacy. The flower buds are harvested before they open, after which the fleshy scale leaves and especially the heart—the core of the bud—are used in cooking.
The Grosse von Laon has a refined, soft, and slightly nutty flavor. It can be:
steamed or boiled and served with vinaigrette
filled with herbs, lemon, garlic or cheese
grilled on the barbecue for a deep, aromatic flavour
processed in pasta, salads, risotto or Mediterranean dishes
Its large, firm buds make this variety particularly suitable for classic artichoke preparations.
The seeds of Grosse von Laon are ideally sown under glass in:
February–March or
March–April
At a warm temperature of 20–22°C, the seeds usually germinate within 14–20 days. Sow one seed per pot immediately so the young plants develop a strong root ball.
When the seedlings are sufficiently developed and weather permits, they can be planted outdoors at a generous distance of 80 × 80 cm. Artichokes need plenty of space to develop their large rosettes.
In the first year of cultivation, harvesting can begin in August.
In subsequent years, production often begins as early as July, once the plants are fully established and forming new flower stems.
By regularly harvesting the buds you also stimulate new bud formation later in the season.
Artichokes are perennials that can last for years when grown under the right conditions. The Grosse von Laon loves:
sun to partial sun
nutritious, well-drained soil
protection against wet, cold winters
Moisture combined with frost can especially lead to plant failure. Therefore, it is recommended to:
to prune back,
to cover the crown with straw,
and possibly cover with foil until mid-March.
With this protection, the Grosse von Laon can produce strong plants and generous harvests for several years in a row.
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*The information on this website is provided solely for guidance and to assist in selecting and growing the products. Easyseed accepts no liability for the final results.
