Common Name

Tarragon

Scientific Name

Artemisia dracunculus

Habit

A shrubby perennial, about 3 feet tall, with narrow, pointed leaves and tiny yellow-green flowers. Tarragon grows wild in southern Russia and in parts of Europe, in scrub and rocky areas.

Hardiness

Periennial that does best if allowed to go dormant in the winter.

Soil & Site

This delicate plant likes a well-drained, rich soil and full sun.

History & Lore

In ancient times, tarragon was known as a "dragon herb," and was thought to cure venemous stings and the bites of snakes and mad dogs, hence the name dracunculus, or little dragon. A famous legend of the Middle Ages about Tarragon says that the herb originated from the insemination of a radish root by a seed of flax.

Suggested Uses

Culinary      

Tarragon leaves are used in savory cooking, especially French cooking, and fish.  It is a component of the blend called fines herbes. A sprig of tarragon in a bottle of vinegar is an easy way to spice up your salad dressing.

Health

An infusion of tarragon leaves has been used to stimulate the appetite, relieve flatulence and colic, regulate menstruation, alleviate the pain of arthritis, rheumatism and gout, and "expel worms from the body." The fresh leaf or root, applied to aching teeth, cuts, or sores, is said to act as a local anesthetic. The leaves offer iodine, vitamines A and C.

Fun Facts

"In medieval times, pilgrims embarking on long journeys would stuff their shoes with sprigs of tarragon in the hope that the herb would impart stamina."