Jerusalem Artichokes

A Fall Food for Pollinators and Birds

How can you help local pollinators and birds find food in the fall? Flowers and pollinators are plentiful during the warm summer months, but many of these food sources disappear in fall, just when bees and birds are gathering enough energy to survive a long migration or the harsh winter. You can help by planting species that continue to provide food late in the season.

One flower that can help is the Jerusalem artichoke. Despite its name, it is neither from Jerusalem nor an artichoke; it is more closely related to the daisy family. Also known as sunroot, sunchoke, or wild sunflower, this colorful North American native was cultivated by Indigenous peoples for food and medicinal use. Its bright yellow flowers resemble small sunflowers and bloom from late summer well into fall, providing a valuable food source for pollinators. The fast-growing plant reaches 5 to 7 feet and can make an attractive hedge or screen, although it spreads readily and may take over an area if left unchecked. Jerusalem artichokes also produce edible tubers that resemble ginger root and can be eaten raw, cooked, or pickled. They are rich in nutrients and antioxidants.

If you want to help bees and birds through the fall and winter months, plant Jerusalem artichokes and enjoy their bright yellow flowers. If you would like to grow some of your own, you are welcome to visit my large patch at 20 Lane 21 in Brookfield, dig up a few tubers, and begin a pollinator-friendly garden.