Look for large, round artichokes with thick bottom stems. >>Because artichokes are basically the flower bud of a thistle plant, the leaves (petals) should be closed, tight and intact with only a small amount of separation. As the artichoke ages, the leaves open up. >>Artichokes should feel heavy when you pick them up. If not, they've dried out and the leaf bottoms won't be as fleshy as they should be. >>The leaves should "squeak" on a fresh artichoke.