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Tarragon

Artemisia dracunculus

Herb

French tarragon is a refined perennial herb with a distinctive anise-pepper flavour prized in classic cooking. It grows slowly but is long-lived, and its aromatic foliage deters pests from neighbouring vegetables.

Growing Conditions

Sunlight

Full Sun

Water Needs

Low

Soil

Well-draining, lean loam; pH 6.0–7.3

Spacing

18–24 inches

Days to Maturity

Harvest lightly from year 1; French tarragon does not produce viable seed — propagate by division

Growing Zones

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13

Thrives in USDA Zones 4–10

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Keep Away From

No known antagonists

When to Plant

  • Transplant

    Spring from divisions or purchased plants; do not start from seed (Russian tarragon)

  • Harvest

    Harvest tips of young growth; strongest flavour before flowering

Organic Growing Tips

  • Only grow French tarragon (not Russian) for culinary use — Russian tarragon has no real flavour.

  • French tarragon must be propagated by division or cuttings, never from seed.

  • Plant near eggplant and peppers to deter pests with its aromatic essential oils.

  • Cut back to a few inches in autumn; mulch lightly to protect roots through winter.

Common Pests

  • Downy Mildew
  • Root Rot
  • Aphids

All pest management in Garden uses safe, organic, non-toxic methods only. No synthetic pesticides, ever.