Out of the root
artichokes, the jerusalem variety is an unusual sight on the allotment or vegetable plot, but the chinese artichoke is distinctly rare. From a
cultivation standpoint this is rather odd- the chinese artichoke is easier to grow, requiring neither staking nor earthing-up. The reason that
Chinese artichokes are so unpopular is the nature of the tubers- small, convoluted and indented, so that it is the cook rather than the gardener or the family who finds this vegetable frustrating.
The flavour of chinese artichokes is delicate and delicious- treat as jerusalem artichokes in cooking.