Several years ago I bought an artichoke plant from a guy at my local
farmer's market. It has since multiplied into several plants. The
flowers on these plants always turn purple on the tops when they are
very small and they start opening up when they are around tennis
ball size.

Does anyone know what variety of artichoke this is? Is there a
variety of artichoke that would be better for me? I am in Sunset
zone 22 very near the edge of zone 24, about five to seven miles
from the ocean.

Would Imperial Star artichoke grown from seed be better than what I
have? When would I plant Imperial Star artichokes in my area?
Thank you in advance for all replies.
--
My previous cat Rocket thought that every time I ate something he
should get some canned cat food. Marmaduke, the cat I have now,
thinks that he should get canned food and be allowed to get on the
table and eat what he wants off my plate.