tarragon
Also known as: biting dragon; dragon plant; estragon
A woody-based, upright, shrubby perennial up to 150cm tall with narrowly lance-shaped, aromatic leaves 2-8 cm long and 5-8 mm wide. Small, nodding, pale yellow flowerheads are produced in late summer. Dry and fresh leaves are used in many dishes, seasoning blends and condiments. There are two main varieties, French tarragon which is highly regarded culinary herb and Russian tarragon which is milder but more hardy
Scientific classification
- Species
- tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus)
- Genus
- Artemisia
- Family
- Asteraceae
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- Toxicity
- Herbs - Culinary · Herbaceous Perennial
- Plant type
- 0.5-1 metres
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- Deciduous
- Foliage
- Columnar upright
- Habit
- Spring · Summer · Autumn
- Season of interest
- Full sun
- Sunlight
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- Ideal temperature
tarragon pictures
Distribution of tarragon
Distribution map
Europe Russia
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Culture
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Toxicity
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Quick identification of tarragon
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tarragon care guide
- Keep soil consistently moist for steady leafy growth without drought stress
- Watering
- Full sun
- Sunlight
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- Ideal temperature
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist for steady leafy growth without drought stress
Fertilizing
FertilizingNitrogen-rich vegetable feed every two to three weeks in active growth
Pruning
PruningCut back to the lowest, new shoots near the base in mid to late spring
Propagation
PropagationTwo varieties have different types of propagation. Propagate Russian tarragon by seed and French tarragon semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.
Growing
GrowingGrow in a well-drained soil in full sun. Protect French tarragon in winter. Follow tarragon cultivation for more advice.
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Common pests and diseases
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus
Pests
Generally pest-free
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