Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus)
Tarragon is a herbaceous perennial plant widely recognized for its aromatic, narrow, lance-shaped leaves and its culinary uses. It grows to a height of 24 to 36 inches (2 to 3 feet, or 0.6 to 1 meter) and features slender, upright stems. The leaves are bright green, smooth, and highly fragrant, with a slightly licorice-like flavor. Tarragon produces small, inconspicuous greenish-yellow flowers in late summer, though it rarely flowers in some cultivated varieties like French tarragon.
Native to Eurasia and Central Asia, this herb thrives in temperate climates. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Tarragon is valued for its role in seasoning dishes, especially in French cuisine, and its medicinal properties as a digestive aid and appetite stimulant. Its adaptability, ease of growth, and culinary versatility make it a favorite in herb gardens.
Scientific Classification of Tarragon
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Clade | Angiosperms |
| Clade | Eudicots |
| Clade | Asterids |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Artemisia |
| Scientific Name | Artemisia dracunculus |
Quick Information
| Plant Type | Herbaceous perennial |
| Identification | Height: 24 to 36 inches (2 to 3 feet, or 0.6 to 1 meter) Leaves: Narrow, lance-shaped, smooth, bright green Stem: Slender, upright Flowers: Small, greenish-yellow, inconspicuous Roots: Fibrous and shallow Growth Habit: Upright and bushy |
| Distribution | Native to Eurasia; cultivated globally |
| Habitat | Well-drained, sunny areas, often in herb gardens |
| USDA Hardiness Zone | Zones 4–8 |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Lifespan | Perennial |
| Growing Conditions | Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade Soil: Well-drained, sandy to loamy, slightly alkaline Water: Moderate; tolerates brief dry spells |
| Drought Tolerance | Moderate |
| Diseases | Susceptible to root rot and powdery mildew |
| Pests | Occasionally affected by aphids and spider mites |
| Reproductive System | Rarely produces seeds; spreads via root divisions |
| Propagation | Division or cuttings |
| Wildlife Value | Attracts pollinators like bees |
| Uses | Culinary (seasoning for soups, sauces, and meats), medicinal (digestive and appetite stimulant), aromatic (essential oils) |
| IUCN Conservation Status | Not Evaluated |
