Tarragon

(Artemisia dracunculus)

Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Artemisia dracunculus, commonly known as Tarragon, is a deciduous perennial herb or subshrub, native to a variety of habitats including dry plains, river valleys, and the edges of steppes in Europe, Asia, and North America. It typically grows to a height of 120–150 centimeters (4–5 feet) with slender, aromatic branches. The leaves are narrow, glossy, and have a distinctive anise-like flavor. Tarragon rarely flowers when cultivated, especially the French variety, which is preferred for its superior flavor. When it does bloom, the flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and inconspicuous, appearing in compact clusters.

Tarragon is highly valued for its aromatic leaves, which are used as a culinary herb, particularly in French cuisine. It is also known for its ease of maintenance and drought tolerance once established. Tarragon is commonly used in herb gardens, as a border plant, and in containers. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soils. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot. While it can be propagated by seed, division of roots or stem cuttings is more effective due to the sterility of some seeds. Tarragon can be susceptible to powdery mildew and root rot if not properly cared for. It is not typically invasive but can spread through its rhizomatous root system.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1.5-3 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to dry plains, river valleys, and the edges of steppes

Other Names

Common Names: Russian Tarragon , French Tarragon , Silky Wormwood , Wild Tarragon , False Tarragon , Green Sagewort , Wormwood , Estragon , Dragon Sagewort , Dragon Wormwood

Scientific Names: Artemisia dracunculus , Artemisia dracunculoides , Artemisia aromatica , Oligosporus dracunculus , Oligosporus dracunculus subsp. dracunculinus , Artemisia dracunculus var. glauca , Artemisia dracunculina , Artemisia redowskyi , Artemisia dracunculus subsp. dracunculus , Artemisia cernua

GBIF Accepted Name: Artemisia dracunculus L.