Skip to main content

Jerusalem Artichoke

Helianthus tuberosus

Photo by chesterbperry
Published on Project Noah
Zoom
NominateNominate for Wildlife Photograph of the Month
reportFlag Spotting

35.002, -85.1816

Field Notes

Description:

This sunflower has an edible tuberous root, that can be prepared in much the same way as a potato. Though boiling is not recommended, unless you are making a mash, since this tends to make the root mushy. Steaming is preferred to retain the texture, and they are excellent roasted. When blanched and well dried prior to frying, they make very tasty fries.

Notes:

If you would like to grow this very easy perennial, be prepared to keep it's growth in check. This is easily accomplished, as the tubers should be dug annually, preferably after first frost. This practice will yield larger tubers, than if allowed to grow unchecked.

Species ID Suggestions

Comments (2)

Nice spotting and interesting information! It never would have occurred to me that sunflowers have edible roots.
Since joining PN, I've been surprised by how many of the plants we see every day are edible, in whole or in part. Thanks for the cool info!

Accelerate our Mission to Photograph 
Every Species in the World!

Image
Butterflies icon

Wildlife Community

Wildlife Community

Join a worldwide community passionate about wildlife and nature!

Join Project Noah

Nature School

Nature School

Transform your green space into a curiosity-creating nature classroom!

Visit Nature School

Wildlife Game

Wildlife Game

Defend wildlife throughout the jungle in thrilling nature game!

Play Baboon