Sunchoke Helianthus tuberosus

Jerusalem artichoke, (also called Sunchoke, or Sunroot) is an herbaceous perennial root vegetable in the sunflower family. It is grown for showy, late blooming, yellow sunflowers, or as an edible in the vegetable garden. The original native region is thought to be north from Canada to Georgia, and west to Arkansas and Tennessee, however, there has been some adjustment to these boundaries with the current native regions thought to be prairies and plains west of Texas, Arkansas, and Ohio.  This plant has currently established itself in all but five states.

Grow in full to part sun. This is a tall bushy (6-10' x 5'wide) plant that may require some staking or protection from strong wind. Average, dry to medium moisture is required; however, this plant is best with consistent moisture. Mulch to conserve moisture. Jerusalem artichoke will tolerate most soil types as long as they are well drained, but is happiest in slightly alkaline soils (7-7.5). Heavy clay soils prone to waterlogging will reduce yields. It does not tolerate deep shade or maritime exposure. Appearance tends to be weedy. Trim back after bloom time, August-October, or leave seeds as a treat for the birds. The seeds are especially attractive to finches. Tubers may be planted in early spring. Similar to potatoes, whole tubers or pieces of tuber with at least two to three strong buds should be planted. Do not allow the pieces of tuber to dry out before planting.

Fresh Jerusalem artichoke tubers are edible, and are similar in texture to water chestnuts with a nutty flavor. They may be boiled, mashed, roasted like potatoes, or eaten raw. The knobby tubers are harvested in the fall approximately two weeks after the flowers fade (October-December). There are health benefits associated with Jerusalem artichokes. The tubers do not contain starch like potatoes, instead they do contain inulin. Inulin converts to fructose, and may be tolerated better by diabetics. Additional benefits may include lowering blood pressure, reduction of blood sugar levels, and heart health. Ideal for bird gardens, butterfly gardens, pollinator gardens, back of the perennial borders, or naturalized areas. Most areas of North Carolina are suitable for growing Jerusalem artichoke. The edible tubers look like a cross between and Irish potato and a ginger root. They are commercially grown in the northeast and north central United States. Generally, it is not suitable for commercial growing in the south.

Jerusalem artichoke is not an artichoke, nor has it any connection with the city of Jerusalem, Israel. The genus name comes from the Greek words helios meaning sun and anthos meaning flower. The species is from the Latin meaning tuberous in obvious reference to the edible underground tubers. Jerusalem artichoke is sometimes confused with Globe artichoke (Cynara scolymus); however, Globe artichoke is not adapted to North Carolina, and the edible portion of the plant is the globular flower.

Jerusalem artichoke has the potential to become a weed problem. It spreads by rhizome, and is self-seeding to form colonies. Once established in the garden it may be difficult to remove. Any tiny piece of the plant left in the soil will sprout new plants.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

Slugs and swift moths may eat holes in the tubers. Consistent weeding and moisture control may help prevent damage. This plant has few pesticides labeled for it. Rust, leaf fungal spots and powdery mildew occur frequently.