There are no U.S. grade standards for Cardoon. These instructions have been developed by the Specialty Crops Inspection Division to assist officially licensed inspectors in making inspections, writing certificates and to assist in the proper identification of specialty type fruits and vegetables.
Cardoon (Cardoni) is related to the globe artichoke and is native to the Mediterranean. It is cultivated both for its roots and stalks. It is similar in appearance to sea kale. It has tasty inner leaves that may be eaten like celery, however it is usually cooked before eating.