So. I've tried Imperial Star Artichokes for 4 years now. I'm sick and tired of growing them as annuals here just east of Colorado Springs.

The search began for a truly cold hardy artichoke. After doing some reading, I discovered the 'Improved Green Globe Artichoke',

While the hardiness varies from site to site, (I think some CYA is going on with some sites), 5 seems to be a good solid average. While the site I ordered my seeds from claims a zone 3, the highest I've seen is 7. The vast majority say 5.

Has anyone had any experience with these? I'm going to set out my Imperial Stars as planned, but I'm going to direct sow 10-15 of these IGG types. In order to help myself and invoke Murphy's Law, I'm going to plant them where they'd represent the biggest pain if they did indeed come back, in the vineyard.

Input? Experiences? 2-cents? (I'll be sure to give one back).