Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tubersosus)

Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tubersosus), also known as Sunchoke, is a plant with keen survival instincts. Above the ground, Jerusalem Artichoke boasts beautiful towering, classic sunflower look-alikes.  Below the earth, however, the plant reveals large edible and nutritious tubers! Think ginger meets potato. They're not related artichoke, but have a distinctly delicious artichoke-like flavor. Hence the nickname, Sunchoke (Sunflower + Artichoke!)  The hearty underground tubers have intrigued naturalist chefs, home gardeners, and the like. Jerusalem Artichokes are incredibly versatile as a veggie and can be prepared just like any other root vegetable.    Growing Jerusalem artichoke is best done without a lot of coddling.  They grow effortless once established, are fast-growing, drought-resistant, and thrive in the heat of the summer.  Planted in the garden, Jerusalem Artichoke spreads quickly from it's rhizomes. Before you know it, you will have a beautiful patch of Jerusalem Articho