Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus), also known as estragon, is a species of perennial herb in the family Asteraceae. It is widespread in the wild across much of Eurasia and North America, and is cultivated for culinary and medicinal purposes.
What country is tarragon native to?
The plant is believed to be native to Siberia. The French variety is cultivated in Europe, particularly France and Spain, and in North America. Tarragon leaves are bright green in colour, have a warm odour, and taste reminiscent of anise.
Where can tarragon grow?
Tarragon needs a sunny, warm and sheltered position to do well and produce strongly flavoured leaves. French tarragon especially needs a well-drained soil, and grows particularly well in light, sandy soils that are low in nutrients.
Why is it so hard to find tarragon?
“It’s all to do with our light levels,” McVicar explained. “It’s a plant which grows beautifully outside. “It needs the sun, because the sun brings its oils to the surface of the leaf, which accentuates that anise taste.”
Is tarragon native to North America?
Artemisia dracunculus (Tarragon) | Native Plants of North America.
What is the difference between tarragon and French tarragon?
French leaves are smoother, glossier, darker and more pungent and aromatic than those of the Russian plants. The English word tarragon is a corruption of the French word estragon, or little dragon , derived from the Arabic tarkhun.
What is tarragon used for in medicine?
Tarragon is used for indigestion (dyspepsia), poor appetite, nausea and vomiting after surgery, toothache, sleep problems, and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses. In foods and beverages, tarragon is used as a culinary herb.
What flavour is tarragon?
A popular and versatile herb, tarragon has an intense flavour that’s a unique mix of sweet aniseed and a mild vanilla. The leaves are narrow, tapering and slightly floppy, growing from a long, slender stem.
Is tarragon hard to grow?
Tarragon is native to mild European regions. It’s hardy and easy to grow in a sunny or partially shaded spot in well-drained soil. It thrives in spring temperatures and doesn’t do well in overly hot climates.
How long does tarragon take to grow?
90 days
Quick Reference Growing Guide
| Plant Type: | Herbaceous perennial herb | Water Needs: |
|---|---|---|
| Time to Maturity: | 90 days | Companion Planting: |
| Height: | 24-36 inches | Family: |
| Spread: | 12-15 inches | Genus: |
| Growth Rate: | Fast | Species: |
Is there a season for tarragon?
Harvesting. You can harvest tarragon from late spring to early autumn. Snip off the shoot tips, then strip the leaves with your fingers. The leaves are best used fresh, but can also be dried and stored in air-tight containers for use in winter.
Can I grow tarragon from a cutting?
French tarragon is also propagated by taking cuttings from young stems. Collect stem cuttings early in the morning. Cut 4 to 6 inch long stems just below a node and remove the lower 1/3 of the leaves. Dip the cut end in a rooting hormone and plant in warm/moist potting media, misting periodically.
What does Mexican tarragon taste like?
The leaves of Mexican tarragon have an anise-like flavor that serves as a substitute for French tarragon in warm, humid climates.
Does tarragon smell like rosemary?
Tarragon has a more subtle flavor than many other herbs, including rosemary. Still, it has a lot in common with rosemary, with a similar level of earthiness. Tarragon has a subtle aniseed flavor and smell.
Is tarragon the same as thyme?
Thyme tastes quite similar to tarragon, although it won’t give you the same bitter finish. They both have a sweet anise flavor and minty aroma, except tarragon is a bit milder.
Is tarragon a rosemary?
Tarragon
It has a strong flavor, which makes it the perfect substitute for rosemary. If you want your dish to have an instantly recognizable flavor of spice and you’ve run out of rosemary, feel free to add tarragon to the recipe. You can add it in the same amount that’s required for rosemary in the dish.
What are the 3 varieties of tarragon?
The herb is characterized by its bright green, thin, glossy leaves and small greenish-yellow flowers. There are three varieties of Tarragon: Siberian or Russian Tarragon, Mexican Tarragon and French Tarragon.
What is another name for tarragon?
estragon
Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus), also known as estragon, is a species of perennial herb in the family Asteraceae. It is widespread in the wild across much of Eurasia and North America, and is cultivated for culinary and medicinal purposes.
Can you use tarragon for tea?
How can you make tarragon tea? Just boil a tablespoon of fresh tarragon in eight to 10 ounces of water. Steep for five minutes and enjoy!
What are the side effects of tarragon?
Possible Side Effects of Tarragon
Tarragon can cause rashes, coughs, and irritation in the mouth in rare cases. In addition, there is some evidence that tarragon may even be toxic in the long term due to compounds like estragole and methyl eugenol.
Can you eat tarragon raw?
just like you would use any fresh herb. Tarragon does best when you use it raw, or add it at the end of cooking a recipe to retain its flavor; it isn’t meant for long cooking because it can become bitter.