The bulb of California Early Artichoke Garlic has white or off-white skin, sometimes with purple lines. It is bigger and sweeter than California Late.
Inside, there will be 10 to 22 cloves in 4 layers. The skin colour of the cloves is tan or off-white with pink hues.
The cloves have a mild, almost sweet taste.
The garlic needs to be exposed to just above freezing temperatures for 6 weeks to develop properly while growing. It is harvested in late May or June in California. Despite its name, much of California Early Artichoke Garlic sold in North America now is actually grown in Mexico and China.
The garlic belong to the Artichoke sub-group of softneck garlic.
Storage Hints
6 to 8 months.
History Notes
Originated in Italy.