Jerusalem artichoke
Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus) is an annual herb and a close relative of the sunflower, and is a native of North America.
It is grown in most European countries, although rarely as a field crop for the tubers, which contain 13-18% carbohydrates. Inulin is the major carbohydrate, which is a natural polymer of fructose. The high fructose syrups derived from the tubers are used mainly as sweeteners in the food industry, but can also be used for the production of ethanol and in the pharmaceutical industry. The top growth can be used as cattle fodder.
Jerusalem artichokes are sown in early spring using the same equipment as for potatoes. Growth is rapid during the early stages and therefore suppresses any weed growth post emergence. During the first three months of growth nutrient uptake is rapid. Tubers can be harvested during October or November using a modified potato harvester. Tuber yields can range from 10-60 tonnes fresh weight/ha, although 100t/ha has been recorded in Australia. Yields of tops for forage average 18-28t/ha.
