Jerusalem Artichoke, Supernova

Supernova is a superior variety selected by Ken Asmus of Oikos.  It produces high yields on short stolons and the tubers seem to be a little sweeter than the average variety.  Due to the clustered nature of the tubers, you are likely to receive tubers that have been cut.

Culinary Traits

I have read that this variety is sweeter than most and I think I taste that.  It is hard to be sure when you are prepared for a variety to taste different.  Conditions may also affect flavor.  One year I was sure it was much sweeter than my other varieties, but the last time I taste tested them, it seemed about the same.  Well, you be the judge.  Tubers are formed in big, knobbly clusters, so this one can be a little bit more difficult to clean and prepare.  Wash them before the soil dries to them.

Agronomic Traits

Supernova is deceptively short for its high yields, but it does branch heavily.  It reaches about 6-7 feet tall here.  The clustering tubers mean that this is a variety that doesn’t spread much.  Flowers heavily but briefly and occasionally sets some true seed.