Cardoon 15 Seeds - Edible-Cynara cardunculus - Veggie Cardoon is similar to the globe artichoke. However, with cardoon, the tender young leaves and undeveloped, tender flower stalks are eaten instead of the flower bud. The thistle-like cardoon plant grows to a height of 3-5 feet and spreads over an area 6 feet in diameter. There are several uses for cardoon. The most popular way to prepare it is to cook the leaves and tender stalks together. Cardoon may also be eaten fresh and uncooked in salads. It hails from Victorian times. Hardy in zones 6-9. Proper name: Cynara cardunculus.