Attractive vegetables

The artichoke is a large thistle that belongs to the sunflower family. The green vegetable has several thick pointed leaves attached to a central heart. It resembles a large flower bud on top of a slender stalk. The soft petal bases and heart of the vegetable are the edible portions. It is one of the highly nutritious vegetables available during the winter. California leads in the cultivation of this vegetable where it is available throughout the year. This regally packaged vegetable has several nutrients.