Photos are representative and may not match your specific variety.

Colorado Star

Flower

Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus

Overview
A very early artichoke specifically bred for annual production from seed. The 1-3' tall plants vary from upright to prostrate, but all produce high yields of purple to greenish-purple buds. Typically 1-3 primary buds are produced that are 2 1/2-3 1/2" in diameter followed by 5-7 secondary buds ranging from 2-2 1/2" in diameter. Developed by Keith Mayberry, who also bred Imperial Star. Plants are spiny. Perennial in Zone 7 and warmer; otherwise treat as an annual. NOTE: Amount of purpling may vary from plant to plant; some buds will be all purple, while others only show purple-tinged bracts.
Planting
Start indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost; transplant after frost danger passes
Growing
Sun: full. Water: high. Soil: Well-drained loam with moderate fertility. Space plants 18" apart. Germination: 7-14 days.
Pests & diseases
Common pests: Artichoke plume moth, thistle caterpillar, spider mites, aphids. Common diseases: Powdery mildew, root rot in poorly drained soils, bacterial spot.