This flower’s roots are a secret nutritional power house.
Jerusalem artichokes are a stealth food pantry. Also known as sun choke, these pretty flowers wave and bob above delicious, healthy tubers that are a bit larger than a big ginger root.
Best of all, most people have no idea that they’re edible. That makes them an ideal guerilla gardener asset.
A relative of the sunflower, the roots of these plants contain inulin, which is beneficial for diabetics, as well as protein and substantial amounts of minerals.
According to this Government of Ontario document, the plant is a potential source of sugar and alcohol, as well as an invasive weed. As such, you’ll want to keep it away from other crops you might be growing. http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/crops/facts/94-077.htm
Jerusalem artichokes need lots of sun, and will grow well along rail lines and side roads. They also grow abundantly in raised beds and buckets.
A good introduction:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/jerusalem-artichokes/growing-jerusalem-artichokes.htm
This is a great article that goes into substantial detail about the merits of sun chokes and how to grow them
https://www.thesurvivalistblog.net/jerusalem-artichokes/
Some inspiration from The Greedy Gourmet:
I like this flower very much.