Tarragon Overview
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Genus Name | Artemisia dracunculus |
| Common Name | Tarragon |
| Plant Type | Herb, Perennial |
| Light | Full Sun |
| Height | 24 to 36 inches (60–90 cm) |
| Width | 12 to 18 inches (30–45 cm) |
| Foliage Color | Green |
| Flower Color | Pale Green/Yellow (rarely blooms) |
| Bloom Time | Late Summer (if flowering occurs) |
| Zones | 4–9 (French Tarragon hardy in 5–8) |
| Propagation | Division, Cuttings (not seed) |
Why Grow Tarragon in Your Garden?
Tarragon brings a whisper of France to your garden—its slender green leaves release a soft anise-like aroma that elevates everything from chicken to vinegar. Beyond its culinary prestige, tarragon is low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and naturally pest-resistant.
It’s perfect for herbal teas, infused oils, creamy sauces, and as an ornamental herb with architectural elegance.
French vs. Russian Tarragon: What’s the Difference?
| Type | Flavor | Propagation | Cold Hardiness |
|---|---|---|---|
| French | Rich, sweet, complex (preferred) | Cuttings or division | Zones 5–8 |
| Russian | Bitter, less aromatic | Seed or division | Zones 3–9 |
✅ Grow French Tarragon for culinary use — Russian is more ornamental.
How to Grow Tarragon Successfully
Soil: Well-drained, slightly alkaline (pH 6.5–7.5). Avoid soggy or clay soil.
Sunlight: Needs at least 6 hours of direct sun per day for strong flavor.
Spacing: Plant 18 inches apart to allow airflow and avoid mildew.
Best Time to Plant: Spring, after frost danger has passed.
Tarragon Care Guide
Light
Full sun promotes stronger flavor and bushier plants.
Water
Water sparingly. Tarragon prefers drier conditions once established.
Temperature
French Tarragon thrives in mild climates. In colder zones, mulch in winter or pot up and overwinter indoors.
Pruning
Pinch tips to encourage branching. Cut back to ground level in late fall.
Harvesting & Culinary Uses
- When to Harvest: Begin harvesting leaves once the plant reaches 6–8 inches.
- How to Harvest: Use scissors to snip young stems in the morning for best flavor.
- Preservation: Best used fresh, but can be frozen in olive oil or chopped into vinegar.
Kitchen Ideas:
- Béarnaise sauce
- Tarragon chicken
- Herb butter
- Infused white wine vinegar
- Herbal teas
Growing Tarragon in Containers
Perfect for balconies or small herb gardens.
- Container Size: Minimum 12 inches deep
- Soil: Light potting mix with added perlite or coarse sand
- Drainage: Must be excellent. Use terra cotta pots for breathability.
- Indoor Overwintering: Place near a sunny south-facing window.
Propagation Techniques
| Method | Notes |
|---|---|
| Cuttings | Take 4–6" stem cuttings in spring/summer, root in moist sand or vermiculite |
| Division | Divide every 2–3 years in spring to rejuvenate and multiply |
🚫 French tarragon does not produce viable seeds, so avoid seed packets labeled “French.”
Common Issues & Organic Solutions
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Powdery mildew | Poor airflow | Thin plants, improve spacing |
| Root rot | Overwatering | Ensure drainage, don’t water daily |
| Spindly growth | Lack of sun or pruning | Move to sunnier location, pinch tips |
Best Garden Combinations
- With Chives & Parsley: Classic French kitchen trio.
- With Lavender & Sage: Dry-climate pollinator-friendly garden.
- With Marigold: Repels pests, adds color and structure.
Healing & Emotional Value
Tarragon isn’t just for taste—its gentle scent can soothe the nerves, enhance mood, and support digestion. It’s long been used in folk remedies for calming tension and stimulating appetite.
In your healing garden, tarragon acts as a quiet companion, offering sensory comfort and culinary creativity.
A Touch of Provence in Your Backyard
Tarragon is elegance made easy—refined yet rugged, fragrant yet fuss-free. Whether you’re making sauces or steeping teas, this herb quietly transforms both your meals and your mood. A must-have for flavor lovers and garden dreamers alike.
