Herb Specifications
- Season: Perennial
- USDA Zones: 4 - 9
- Height: 48 - 60 inches
- Bloom Season: Mid fall to early winter
- Bloom Color: White
- Environment: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Type: Poor, dry, rocky, gravelly, sandy soils
Planting Directions
- Temperature: Sow at max 41F
- Average Germ Time: 14 - 60 days
- Light Required: No
- Depth: 1/8 inch deep and cover with fine soil, well pressed down
- Sowing Rate: 15 - 20 seeds per plant
- Moisture: Keep seeds moist until germination
- Plant Spacing: 18 - 24 inches
Tarragon (Artemesia Dracunculus) -Thriving in hot, barren soils, Tarragon is a tough herb plant. It is native to northwestern United States, Russia and Asia, and it is closely related to sagebrush. It is both a medicinal herb as well as a popular culinary herb. Tarragon can reach 60 inches in height, and it has thin, blade-like leaves that are wonderfully aromatic with a sweet anise-like flavor. In late summer, Tarragon produces white, rather droopy flowers.
Tarragon is highly used in French cooking. It flavors vinegar, fish, meats, vegetables, cheese and sauces. The leaves can be used in cooking both fresh and dried. Medically, Tarragon is used in teas to stimulate digestion and ease intestinal distension.
Tarragon herb plants prefer sunshine and sharply draining soils that are sandy or rocky. It is recommended to start Tarragon seed indoors 6 – 8 weeks before the last frost. Transplant the young plants outdoors after temperatures warm up. Once established, Tarragon requires little care. Keep the soil on the dry side. Harvest the Tarragon leaves and flowers throughout the summer. Dry or freeze for long-term use.
