Helicine arteries

Helianthus tuberosus (commonly known as the Jerusalem artichoke, sunroot, sunchoke, or earth apple) is a species of sunflower native to central North America. It is also cultivated widely across the temperate zone for its tuber, which is used as a root vegetable.

Description

Helianthus tuberosus is a herbaceous perennial plant growing to 1.5–3 m (4 ft 11 in–9 ft 10 in) tall with opposite leaves on the upper part of the stem but alternate below. The leaves have a rough, hairy texture. Larger leaves on the lower stem are broad ovoid-acute and can be up to 30 cm (12 in) long. Leaves higher on the stem are smaller and narrower.

The flowers are yellow and produced in capitate flowerheads, which are 5–10 cm (2.0–3.9 in) in diameter, with 10–20 ray florets and 60 or more small disc florets. The tubers are elongated and uneven, typically 7.5–10 cm (3.0–3.9 in) long and 3–5 cm (1.2–2.0 in) thick, and vaguely resembling ginger root, with a crisp texture when raw. They vary in color from pale brown to white, red, or purple.

Cultivation and uses

Helianthus tuberosus is cultivated for its tuber, which is used as a root vegetable. The plant is easy to grow in a well-drained soil and is frequently seen in the wild. The tubers persist for years after being planted, so that the species expanded its range from central North America to the eastern and western regions. The tubers are edible raw or cooked, and the flavor has a delicate sweetness like a pear or watermelon.

The tubers are also used in cooking in a variety of ways and can be used in anything from salads to stews. They are often used as a substitute for potatoes and have a similar consistency, and in their raw form, they have a similar texture to radishes.

See also

• Helianthus
• Jerusalem artichoke
• Sunflower