ABSTRACT

Cardoon is thought to be the native of the Western and Central Mediterranean regions, where it was domesticated in ancient times. Cardoon, also known as the artichoke thistle, cardone, cardoni, carduni, or cardi, is although very similar to globe artichoke in appearance but it tends to form taller plants. It is well adapted to the xerothermic conditions of southern Europe and typical conditions of arid and semiarid areas of the Mediterranean environment. Cardoon contains unique health benefiting plant nutrients such as antioxidants, minerals and vitamins as it is rich in folic acid, magnesium, calcium, potassium, phosphorous and sodium. Cardoon has become important as a medicinal herb in recent years. The pharmacological active compounds, that is, inulin in roots and cynarin and silymarin, extracted from cardoon, are also of a potential use. Cardoon thrives best in regions with warm and humid climate. It shows great adaptation to Mediterranean climate, which is characterized by moist and mild cold winters and dry summers.