CASTROVILLE, CALIF. - Ocean Mist Farms is launching production of purple artichokes, the newest addition to the company’s family of artichokes. 

The purple artichokes include a vibrant purple exterior that when cooked transforms into a deep green. The new variety has the look and flavor of a Mediterranean old-world variety with tender, meaty leaves and a rich, earthy artichoke flavor. 

“We are happy to share this new variety of artichokes with our customers,” said Diana McClean, senior director of marketing at Ocean Mist Farms. “Not only are they striking in appearance, but we’ve found these artichokes to have a superior texture when steamed, and they are as flavorful and meaty as the original Castroville Green Globe artichoke.”   

In this first season, the artichokes are harvesting in 12, 18 and 24 sizes, with a majority being the 18 and 24 size. They will be labeled with a unique tag and company specific UPC. 

To promote the new artichokes Ocean Mist debuted “Arti’s Summer Romance,” a social media-based campaign that introduces Viola, a promotional purple artichoke mascot to complement Arties, the green artichoke. 

The social media storyline will unfold over the course of four weeks, starting with Viola and Artie meeting at the bus station upon Viola’s arrival in Castroville and then in four subsequent dates around town. Shoppers are invited to comment and like each promotion post for a chance to win a $25 gift card.