Smallanthus sonchifolius

Smallanthus sonchifolius, known as an earth apple, has sweet, edible storage roots and single yellow flowers.

Smallanthus sonchifolius is a perennial plant notable for its large, edible storage roots. It is a relative of the sunflower with smaller yellow single flowers. The roots have brown skin similar to that of a potato. The flesh is white and sweet to the taste both raw and cooked and is comparable to that of apple and a pear with the crisp texture of celery. Taste and texture remain somewhat the same whether eaten raw or cooked plus it oxidizes at a very slow rate. Roots are said to be very low in carbohydrates. Easy to grow and resistant to many pests and diseases. Consume fresh like a dessert apple or roast or cook in stir fries, soups, stews, and curries.

Common Name:  Earth Apple - [Fall Citrus Pre-Order]

Family:  Asparagaceae (The Asparagus Family)

Zone Hardiness:  7-11

Light:  Full Sun Part Shade Part Sun

Height:  4-6'

Width:  2-3'

Primary Bloom Colour:  Yellow

Secondary Bloom Colour:  Yellow

Bloom Time:  Summer - Fall

Foliage Colour:  Green

Class:  Deciduous

Type:  Perennial

Soil Moisture:  Moist, Average

Stem Colour:  

Fragrance:  Yes

Berries:  

Benefits:  Butterflies, Bees

Deer Resistant:  Unknown

BC Native:  

Native Habitat:  Highlands of the Andes

Award:  

Geographical Origin: