Cynara

Cynara is a genus of flowering plants in the daisy family, Asteraceae, native to the Mediterranean region. The best-known cultivated members are the globe artichoke and the cultivated cardoon. The taxonomy of Cynara is variable: many sources treat globe artichoke as Cynara scolymus, while others treat it as Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus, within the species Cynara cardunculus. The genus also includes wild or cultivated forms such as Cynara cardunculus and related subspecies.

Description: Plants are herbaceous perennials with tall, erect stems and spiny, lobed leaves. They produce large inflorescences called capitula; the edible parts are the immature flower heads (artichokes) or the young stems (cardoons).

Distribution and cultivation: Native to the Mediterranean basin, Cynara species are grown in warm, temperate regions around the world. Globe artichoke is widely grown in Europe, North Africa, and California, requiring long daylength and mild winters. Cardoons are grown similarly for their stalks, which are blanched for tenderness.

Uses: Artichokes are consumed as a vegetable; cardoons are cooked as a vegetable; both valued for flavor and texture. They are also used in traditional dishes and as ingredients in preserves and stews.

In culture: The name Cynara has appeared in literature and poetry. In English literature, Cynara is the title of a poem by Ernest Dowson, published in the late 19th century, often cited as a symbol of unrequited love. The term has also been used as a feminine given name.