Globe artichokes are the large, unopened flower bud of a plant belonging to the thistle family. The many leaf-like parts making up the bud are called scales. Peak season is in April and May.

Castroville, California is known as the Artichoke Capital of the World. It is where Norma Jean (Marilyn Monroe) was crowned Artichoke Queen in 1947. The Castroville Artichoke Festival is held at the end of May each year.