artichoke

Large, coarse, herbaceous, thistlelike perennial plant (Cynara scolymus) of the family Asteraceae. The thick, edible scales and bottom part (heart) of the immature flower heads are a culinary delicacy. The artichoke is native to the Mediterranean and is cultivated extensively in other regions with rich soil and a mild, humid climate. The Jerusalem artichoke is a tuber and does not resemble the artichoke.

Find more information on artichoke. Upgrade to Britannica Online for more on artichoke.