Chinese artichokes, or Stachys affinis, are a unique perennial crop that yields tasty tubers often used in Asian cuisine. Also referred to as crosne or chorogi, this plant belongs to the mint family.
While not mainstream, this crop is deserving of more attention. I encountered Chinese artichokes while working in the kitchen garden at a country estate in Oxfordshire, where we grew a wide variety of vegetables for two restaurants.
These plants are relatively easy to grow but require careful management to prevent them from spreading uncontrollably. Many gardeners opt for contained spaces, making raised beds or containers ideal for successful cultivation.
Enjoy the distinctive, knobbly tubers produced by Chinese artichoke plants
Understanding Chinese Artichokes
Chinese artichokes are hardy perennials that thrive in US hardiness zone 5. Each season, they produce numerous small tubers, making them a rewarding addition to any garden.
'Chinese artichokes are delightful in culinary uses and make for interesting garden discussions,' states a local gardener. 'They're low-maintenance yet yield satisfying results for gardeners.'
Though rare in many vegetable gardens, these tubers have been cultivated in China and Japan for centuries and are also featured in French cuisine.
Benefits of Growing Chinese Artichokes
Chinese artichokes offer numerous health benefits and are versatile in the kitchen. Their tubers can be eaten raw or cooked, often featured in gourmet dishes.
According to a culinary expert, they possess a unique nutty flavor and a crunchy texture, making them a standout ingredient.
Nutritiously, these tubers are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, aiding digestion, and are well-known for their antioxidant properties.
Planting Chinese Artichokes from Tubers
Chinese artichoke tubers typically measure 2-3 inches long and less than an inch wide
To grow Chinese artichokes, start with the small tubers they produce. Each plant can reach 18 inches tall and yield up to 30 tubers. Plant tubers about two inches deep, spaced 12 inches apart.
The ideal planting time is early spring, post-frost, as they prefer well-draining, nutrient-rich soil.
Chinese artichokes thrive best in a sunny area. Consider using cloches to warm the soil for earlier planting and protection. A sturdy cloche can help achieve this.
For waterlogged soil, start tubers indoors in small pots before transferring them outdoors once they sprout.
Due to their vigorous spreading nature, it's advisable to plant them in containers or raised beds. This setup not only manages their spread but also allows control over soil conditions and sunlight exposure.
A metal raised garden bed kit offers various configurations and stands 17 inches tall, providing a great option for gardening.
Best Practices for Growing Chinese Artichokes
Chinese artichokes belong to the mint family, and their foliage resembles that of herbs
Maintaining consistent moisture is key to successfully growing Chinese artichokes. Monitor your watering schedule to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Mulching can help retain moisture while minimizing weeds.
In containers or raised beds, these crops will need more frequent watering than those in the ground. Check moisture levels a few inches below the surface to gauge irrigation needs.
To nourish your plants, incorporate organic matter before planting. Compost or well-rotted manure can provide essential nutrients, reducing the need for additional fertilizers in ground plantings.
If organic matter is unavailable, use a balanced fertilizer during planting. Container plants will require more frequent feeding due to limited nutrient availability.
Slugs and snails can pose a threat, particularly to young plants. Implementing barriers or traps can help deter these pests.
Harvesting Chinese Artichokes
Each plant can yield up to 30 tubers
Chinese artichokes take about 5-7 months to mature. Harvesting typically begins in late fall, as the foliage starts to die back.
Due to their short storage life, it's best to harvest them as needed, ideally from October onwards. A few frosts can enhance their sweetness by converting starches to sugars. Tubers can remain in the ground throughout winter.
To collect the tubers, gently lift the plants and search through the soil to find any detached tubers. It's surprising how many can be missed, and each can sprout next year if left behind. Gather as many as possible for replanting.
