Jerusalem Artichoke Plant 80/100cm (3L)

Jerusalem Artichoke – Helianthus tuberosus is a vigorous perennial sunflower that produces both cheerful golden blooms and edible tubers beneath the soil. Standing tall with bright yellow daisy-like flowers that appear from late summer through autumn, this hardy plant brings both ornamental beauty and culinary interest to gardens. The edible tubers have a sweet, nutty flavour and can be harvested from autumn through winter, making this an excellent dual-purpose addition to any productive garden.

This robust perennial thrives in British conditions, tolerating a wide range of soil types and requiring minimal maintenance once established. The plants develop strong, upright stems clothed in rough-textured leaves, creating an impressive vertical accent in borders or along boundaries. The cheerful flowers, measuring 5-8cm across, attract bees, butterflies and other beneficial pollinators during late season when many other plants have finished flowering.

Jerusalem Artichoke tubers multiply readily underground, producing an abundant harvest year after year. The knobbly tubers can be roasted, mashed, made into soup or eaten raw in salads. They contain inulin rather than starch, making them a popular choice for those monitoring their carbohydrate intake. The flavour is often described as similar to globe artichoke hearts with a subtle sweetness.

Growing Jerusalem Artichoke in British Gardens

Plant tubers or young plants in spring after the last frost, spacing them 30-45cm apart in full sun or partial shade. Jerusalem Artichoke adapts to most soil types but performs best in fertile, well-drained ground. Dig in garden compost or well-rotted manure before planting to encourage vigorous growth and good tuber production.

Water regularly during dry spells, particularly whilst plants are establishing and during tuber formation in late summer. The tall stems may require staking in exposed positions to prevent wind damage. Apply a general-purpose fertiliser in spring to support strong growth.

Cut stems down to ground level after the first frosts have blackened the foliage, typically in late autumn or early winter. Harvest tubers as needed throughout winter, leaving some in the ground to regrow the following spring. Be aware that Jerusalem Artichoke can spread enthusiastically, so consider growing in a contained area or removing unwanted tubers each season.

The plant tolerates temperatures well below freezing, making it perfectly suited to British winters. Mulching around the base helps suppress weeds and protects tubers during particularly harsh weather, though this hardy perennial rarely requires winter protection.

Ultimate height
2.5–4 metres

Time to ultimate height
2–5 years

Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres

Please note: Decorative pots shown are for display purposes only. Your tree will be supplied in a standard plastic nursery pot shown in the other pictures.