Jerusalem Artichoke 'Fuseau'

'Fuseau' is a highly regarded cultivar of the Jerusalem Artichoke, specifically selected for its smoother, spindle-shaped tubers which are much easier to peel than the knobbly wild types. This is a very tall, vigorous tuberous perennial, often reaching over 2.5 metres in height, making it an excellent choice for a temporary summer screen or windbreak at the edge of a vegetable patch. In late autumn, it produces small, yellow, sunflower-like flowers, though the primary harvest is the underground tubers. These have a delicious, nutty, earthy flavour and can be roasted or made into soup. It is incredibly hardy (H7) and will grow in almost any soil condition in the UK. Care should be taken when planting, as any small piece of tuber left in the ground will regrow, meaning it can become somewhat persistent. It is best harvested after the first frosts when the starches have turned to sugars.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Any, including poor or heavy soils.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: Sep, Oct.