Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus (L.1753), also known as Zingiber officinale and Guizijiang, is a perennial herb. It is1-3m high, with massive underground stems and fibrous roots. Stems erect, branched, white hispid or setose.
Jerusalem artichoke originated in North America and was introduced to Europe in the 17th century, and then to China.
Jerusalem artichoke is edible. Tubers are rich in starch and are excellent juicy feed. Fresh stems and leaves as silage have higher nutritional value than sunflowers. Tuber is also a delicious vegetable and can be processed into pickles; Inulin and alcohol can also be made, which is also a valuable industrial raw material.