White Flower Farm
Cardoon 'Porto Spineless'
The Cardoon 'Porto Spineless' is an imposing, thistle-like perennial featuring steel-gray, spiked leaves that offer dramatic contrast in borders or containers. This cultivar lacks the prickly spines typical of the species, making it more manageable. In warmer zones (7-10), it develops flower buds resembling small artichokes late in the season. It thrives in full sun and average garden soil, requiring thorough watering after planting, though established plants show drought resistance. Foliage quality is maintained by cutting off flower stems as they appear. This plant is noted for its architectural presence in the landscape.
$11.50
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
2132
/ 2693
#2132 in Plants
Price vs Category Average
-74%
Below average
Ships as
128.86.
/ PINT ( CU IN)
Who it's for
- Effortless Handling
- Striking Garden Presence
- Gourmet Culinary Appeal
Who should skip it
- Requires Ample Space
- Labor-Intensive Blanching
- Needs a Long Season
Key Specs
Ships as
1 PINT (28.86 CU IN.)
Mature Height
3-4 feet
Spacing
4 feet
Hardiness Zone
Annual or Perennial in Zones 7-10
Exposure
Full Sun
Features
- Spineless variety for easier handling compared to the species.
- Creates a dramatic, imposing feature with steel-gray foliage.
- Suitable for use in containers alongside annuals.
- Produces flower buds resembling small artichokes late in the season (in hardy zones).
- Established plants exhibit good drought resistance.
- Attracts beneficial insects.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the exceptional quality and robust health of the Cardoon plants upon arrival. The 'Porto Spineless' variety is highly valued for its reliable growth and ease of handling, making it a favorite for both edible and ornamental gardening. Gardeners appreciate that the plants establish quickly and produce impressive architectural foliage, confirming the premium value associated with White Flower Farm stock.
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$12