Jerusalem Artichoke, or sunchoke, is a native sunflower that produces edible, starchy tubers. It was cultivated by indigenous peoples across eastern North America as a food staple long before European contact. It can form aggressive colonies along roadsides and stream banks. The tubers are consumed by deer, bears, and small mammals during winter.
Best time to see a Jerusalem Artichoke
The best time to see a Jerusalem Artichoke is August–September, when about 71% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 1,814 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Jerusalem Artichoke? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Jerusalem Artichoke sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a Jerusalem Artichoke? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.
Get HuckGet an alert when a Jerusalem Artichoke is spotted
Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.
Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.
Love plants? Get Huck field notes
Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.