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Jerusalem Artichoke, Girasole

Scientific Name: Helianthus tuberosus L.
Synonym: Helianthus tomentosus
Family: Asteraceae

Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913. Illustrated flora of the northern states and Canada. Vol. 3: 486.

Recommended Temperature Zone:
Sunset®: All zones
USDA: 3-9

Heat Tolerance: Good

Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade

Origin: North America (Great Plains)

Growth Habits: Perennial, 3 to 6 feet in height (0.9-1.8 m), 1 to 3 feet spread (0.3-0.9 m); tubers produced on the ends and branches of underground stems; leaves up to 8 inches long (20 cm)

Watering Needs: Medium moisture

Propagation: Tubers, self seeds, can be invasive

Robert H. Mohlenbrock. USDA SCS. 1991. Southern wetland flora: Field office guide to plant species.

The Italian name 'Girasole' meaning 'turning with the sun', was corrupted into 'Jerusalem', while the taste of the root reminding an artichoke heart, the plant was now called 'Jerusalem Artichoke', when it is not an artichoke and doesn't come from Jerusalem.
Although a great edible, the Jerusalem Artichoke is classified as an invasive weed in a number of states.

Blooming Habits:
The Jerusalem Artichoke has yellow flowers, 3 to 4 inches in diameter (7-10 cm), in August and September. They are great fresh cut flowers

List of All the Plants | More in the Asteraceae family

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