Globe artichoke, native to regions in Southwest Asia, has a wide cultivated range spanning parts of southern and northern Asia, Europe, Northern Africa, as well as significant areas in the Mediterranean region. Introduced populations of globe artichoke also occur in distinct regions of the Americas, Australasia, and Southeast Asia, reflecting its adaptation to diverse climates beyond its native habitat.

Globe artichoke originates from the Mediterranean region. It's identified as a potential weed due to its vigorous growth and reproduction ability. The plant can easily spread, taking over garden spaces, and is quite challenging to eradicate once established. It's particularly harmful to gardens because its large leaves shadow smaller plants, hindering their growth. On the other hand, the plant is also grown domestically for its edible flower buds. If you decide to grow it in your garden, keep an eye out for its rapid proliferation and always monitor the area it occupies to prevent it from becoming invasive. Its primary mode of spreading is through seeds, which are dispersed by wind, animals, and even water.

To manage globe artichoke effectively, it's best to address weed control efforts in early spring or late winter before the plant bolts, which means before it starts producing flower stalks. Control should start before the plant reaches this reproductive phase to prevent it from spreading.