In CA, a friend had them and her outlook was she was going to have them forever, as there was no way she was going to dig all of them up. She didn't stay on top of them.

They'll make it over here and their tops are definitely cool looking and you'll likely enjoy having them (kind of like a Maximilian sunflower, which I have here).

BUT. You have to harvest them every year and save 2-3-4 for next year, else they'll get out of control (my friend failed to do this). If you've had sunchokes in the store or a restaurant, that's what they are, good starch and different. And you'll have the tops too.

Dan

Thanks, Dan! I think I have just the spot for them, easy digging since I'll be doing a lot of it with them. I am a sunflower and daisy fan, so I think I'll like them. I don't believe I've ever eaten one but expanding my veggie intake would be a good thing.
Barb

I've had these in two very different areas. In Salt Lake, they grew in a very well kept clump, and rarely needed any extra care.

In Albuquerque, they were incredibly invasive and I ended up ripping them all out 'cuz they were so annoying! :D

Bob, thanks. I hope it's the former and not the latter here. A little maintenance is ok and at least I know before I plant them.

Barb

It's the cold that keeps them in check.

Dan