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French tarragon

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  • Vegetables and herbs
French tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus 'Sativa')
Photo: Jardin botanique de Montréal (Josée Bouthot)
Artemisia dracunculus 'Sativa'

Onglets

Botany

Origin and description

French tarragon is native to Central Asia or Siberia. It gets its Latin name from its curled snake- or dragon-shaped roots. It is an important herb in French cuisine and contains an essential oil similar to that in anise. Because the oil evaporates when the herb is dried, fresh tarragon has a more delicate flavour and much better aroma.
Cycle: Perennial.
Spacing: 30-40 cm.
Height: 30-60 cm.

Common name

French tarragon

Latin name (genus)

Artemisia dracunculus 'Sativa'

English common name

French common name

Botanical family

  • Asteraceae
Horticulture

Growing conditions

Exposure: Full sun.

Pruning and maintenance

Requires winter protection.

Use

Harvesting: Leaves as desired

Culinary use: Fresh leaves.

See also

Pests and diseases
Physiological disorders