Sun Choke

Sun Choke

Latin Binomial (Helianthus tuberosus)

Family: Asteraceae ...Sunflower, Daisy

AKA: Jerusalem Artichoke

Description: The plant is 4 to 9 ft tall with opposite leaves on the upper part of the stem and alternate leaves on the lower stem. The leaves have a rough, hairy texture. Larger leaves on the lower stem are broad ovoid-acute and can be up to a foot long. Leaves on the higher part of the stems are smaller and narrower. The outer flower petals are yellow and the inner disc flowers are a darker color. The stalks produce multiple flower heads. The flower heads are 4 to 6 inches across.

Edible Parts: The tubers are gnarley and uneven, vaguely resembling ginger root. Sunchokes can produce two times the tubers as garden potatoes and are a great source of food. If not properly cooked they may cause flatulence. The cooked tubers may taste similar to artichokes but with a potato-like consistency.

Notes: The tubers are high in carbs but low in starch. It contains inulin which benefits diabetics. Inulen helps control blood sugar. (Needs a cite) The Sunchoke promotes healthy gut bacteria and aids in reducing harmful gut bacteria.

I think this plant is strikingly beautiful. I've seen this plant over the last ten years while walking the MCT trails, near "Jerusalem Rd!!!!"

Contributor:

JRH