Cynara scolymus, a herbaceous perennial plant, in the family Compositae; also called globe artichoke. Its origin is in the Mediterranean region. Artichoke requires a mild winter and cool summer with fog and little bright sunshine. It is a delicacy in Europe, Africa, and North and South America. Artichoke is also a medicinal plant; it is rich in the cynarin and orthophenol constituents. Of the total acres planted worldwide, approximately 56%, 14%, and 12% are planted in Italy, France, and Spain, respectively.