Artichoke, Cynara scolymus.  Compositae.  Native of France brought to the America's and broadly produced in California, this photo taken near Oxnard. Plants grows from 3 to 5 feet tall.

Considered hypoglycemic, a good food for diabetics.  Stimulates the flow of bile, appetite stimulant (mildly bitter), antitoxin, diuretic.  Infuse the leaves for a liver cleanser.  A good source of folic acid, potassium, magnesium.  Blood cleansing tonic fruit and leaf infusion.