How to Grow Imperial Star
Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus
Your complete guide to growing Imperial Star.
📷 Wikipedia: FlowerWhen to Plant Imperial Star
Planting windows vary by USDA hardiness zone. Look up yours by ZIP code.
| Zone | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | May – June | July – September | — |
| Zone 2 | April – May | June – August | — |
| Zone 3 | April – May | June – August | — |
| Zone 4 | March – April | June – July | — |
| Zone 5 | March – April | May – July | — |
| Zone 6 | March – April | May – July | — |
| Zone 7 | February – March | April – June | — |
| Zone 8 | February – March | April – June | — |
| Zone 9 | January – February | March – May | — |
| Zone 10 | January | February – April | — |
| Zone 11 | January | January – March | — |
| Zone 12 | January | January – March | — |
| Zone 13 | January | January – March | — |
Companion Plants for Imperial Star
✓ Good companions
Repel aphids and improve soil health while not competing for space
Utilizes space efficiently as a ground cover and has shallow roots that don't compete
Repel aphids, whiteflies, and nematodes that commonly attack artichokes
Act as trap crops for aphids and cucumber beetles while attracting beneficial insects
Attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps that control pests
Fix nitrogen in soil which benefits the heavy-feeding artichoke plants
Repels cabbage moths and other pests while tolerating similar Mediterranean conditions
Enhances growth and may improve flavor while repelling various garden pests
✗ Keep away from
Produces juglone toxin that stunts growth and can kill artichoke plants
Competes heavily for nutrients and water, while attracting corn earworms that may damage artichokes
Produces allelopathic compounds that inhibit growth of most vegetables including artichokes
