If you are looking for a dramatic plant to add to your garden I suggest you take a look at the cardoon. A cousin of the artichoke, cardoon has the same thistle-like silver-grey foliage and purple flowering heads, but it is less finicky than an artichoke. Plus, cardoon is just a cool looking plant. It is a perennial that is grown as an annual in most areas. Plant it after the last frost date in spring in a spot that receives full sun to partial shade and well drained, fertile soil.