Cardoons

I have to accept that one of my seed-grown artichokes is actually a cardoon. Last year I hoped and hoped, but when it made two plus metres and produced abundant tiny (but pretty) flowers I had to admit that this was no artichoke!
A quick interweb suggests the plants need to be harvested in late summer or early autumn, or another from December to spring! A friend from Provence says that they eat it as a gratin at Christmas, which fits with the winter harvest.
So, anyone grown, and more importantly cooked and eaten cardoons?

   

The beast in the summer last year. And now of course, instead of one giant there are three fighting for space!

I’m growing it for the first time. I didn’t realise you could eat it. I’m going to be researching that later.
I’m mainly growing it because it’s a good plant for wildlife and it’s very structural for my cottage garden.
Also didn’t realise they got quite that tall. At least I know to plant him at the back of the bed. Thank you.
Glad only 2 germinated.

Aren't cardoons wrapped in cardboard and blanched to eat the shoots? Could be making this up of course.

Aren't cardoons wrapped in cardboard and blanched to eat the shoots? Could be making this up of course.

I have heard that - wrapped in cardboard and providing a lovely space for slugs and bugs and beasts to hide away  

I thought it was Tom & Jerry

Aren't cardoons wrapped in cardboard and blanched to eat the shoots? Could be making this up of course.

I have grown it before and deffo wouldn't recommend eating it before blanching as it is disgusting!

I thought it was Tom & Jerry

Only just got that. Ha ha , very good!
had to keep saying “cardoons” first, though.