Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus) - The diabetic tuber

Jerusalem artichoke – nutritious root vegetable with a nutty taste and valuable ingredients.

The plants grow over 3 meters tall and delight with their autumn blossoms as short-day bloomers. Thanks to their high inulin content, they are ideal for a conscious diet and especially suitable for diabetics. Harvesting takes place from early winter, after the foliage has died back. Available in two varieties: white and red tubers.

Sold as planting material. From 500 grams.

Available from November 2026

The Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus), also known as sunchoke, earth apple, or Indian potato, belongs to the daisy family and is closely related to the sunflower.

Almost all parts of the plant are usable, with the underground tubers being particularly prized culinarily.

Edible Plant Parts & Uses

1. Tubers

• Taste: Sweet, nutty, and finely aromatic (reminiscent of a mixture of artichoke, chestnut, and parsnip).

• Uses: The tubers are extremely versatile. They can be used raw (thinly sliced) in salads, but are also excellent for cooking, baking, frying, or for creamy soups and purees. Since the skin is very thin, they usually only need to be thoroughly scrubbed before preparation.

2. Flowers and Aerial Parts

• Uses: The beautiful yellow flowers that appear in autumn are also edible.

• Preparation: The petals can be used as a decorative addition to salads or as a garnish. While the stems and leaves are not poisonous, they are rarely used in cooking due to their rough texture, but can be dried and used as a tea base.

⚠️ Important Health Information: Inulin

Unlike potatoes, Jerusalem artichoke tubers store their energy not as starch, but in the form of inulin, a soluble dietary fiber.

• Good for blood sugar: Since inulin hardly affects blood sugar levels, Jerusalem artichoke is particularly popular among diabetics (hence the name "diabetic potato").

• Digestive considerations: Inulin can lead to flatulence in sensitive individuals or when consumed in unaccustomedly large quantities, as it is only fermented in the large intestine. It is advisable to start with small portions or prepare the tubers with digestion-promoting herbs such as caraway or fennel.