Artemisia dracunculus
tarragon
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
Synonyms
Artemisia redowskii
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Artemisia can be shrubs, perennials or annuals, evergreen or deciduous, with usually grey, aromatic, often divided foliage and rather insignificant flower-heads
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe Russia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a well-drained soil in full sun. Protect French tarragon in winter. Follow tarragon cultivation for more advice.
Propagation
Two varieties have different types of propagation. Propagate Russian tarragon by seed and French tarragon semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Low Maintenance
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut back to the lowest, new shoots near the base in mid to late spring
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus
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