sunroot/sunchoke (#2)
Orders come as 3 or 12 tubers.
Native to the eastern US, sunchokes are a perennial plant in the sunflower tribe. They provide an edible tuber which is generally dug during the cold months. It is a very hardy plant that has produced for us in severe drought. Tubers sweeten after frost and can be left in the ground (to be dug as needed) throughout the winter. The root is a great source of inulin, which is a prebiotic (food for gut bacteria). It is also a well-known source of starch for those with diabetes. Slow, low cooking converts the inulin to fructose, making them incredibly sweet. The flowers attract many insects and pollinators, including leatherwings and butterflies. Plant more than one variety to increase the chances of producing seed, a goldfinch favorite.
Supernova: A superior variety selected by Kenny Asmus of Oikos Tree Crops. High yields of large tubers generally packed in tight clusters, so not as likely to spread. Said to be one of the sweeter sunroot varieties.
Stampede: Considered one of the highest yielding varieties. Forms flowers and tubers earlier than most varieties. Large tubers cluster, though not as tightly as Supernova.
Chinese: Very productive, high yields of long tubers that are very smooth. I will note that this one is a bit of a mystery. I originally purchased tubers that were sold to me as woodland sunflower, Helianthus strumosus, variety ‘Chinese’. After growing it and observing the plant, I am not 100% convinced that this is true. I think it is more likely that this a hybrid, possibly bred in China. If you have any knowledge of the origins of this variety, let me know! Not currently available to order.
Variance: Variance is not a named cultivar. The name is meant to imply divergent genetics. These tubers will come as a mix of cultivars and wild seedling tubers that have cross-bred in my plantings. Cultivar tubers will not be labeled. When planted in close proximity this diversity will allow for the creation of seed to grow your own varieties, or establish a sunroot hedge that feeds the birds. Goldfinches particularly love sunroot seed. Of course, the tubers still make a great food for human animals as well. Because these tubers are mostly gathered from areas that are fallow, tubers are generally on the small side. Not currently available to order.
Plant details:
Genus & species: Helianthus tuberosus (likely exception with ‘Chinese’)
Hardiness: Zone 4 to zone 9
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Soil type: Easy to grow in many soil types
Soil moisture: Average, well-drained
Planting Instructions: Plant tubers 12 - 16 inches apart and 4 - 6 inches deep
