French Tarragon
Artemisia dracunculus var. sativa
Family: Asteraceae
French tarragon is a sophisticated herb with a distinctive anise-licorice flavor. It is essential in French cuisine, especially for classic sauces like béarnaise.
Days to Harvest
85-100 days
Sun Needs
Full Sun to Part Shade (4-6+ hours)
moderate
Germination Temp
70°F optimal
Start Indoors
0 weeks before last frost
Germination
10-14 days
Seed Depth
N/A
Light to Germinate
Yes
💡 Tip: French tarragon rarely produces viable seed. Grow from cuttings or divisions.
Soil Type
Well-draining, moderately fertile
pH Range
6 - 7.5
Spacing
18-24 inches between plants
⚠️ Avoid planting near:
History
Tarragon originated in Central Asia and was brought to Europe in the Middle Ages. "Dracunculus" means "little dragon" - perhaps referring to its serpentine roots.
Nutritional Benefits
- ✓Contains antioxidants
- ✓Traditional digestive aid
- ✓May help regulate blood sugar
Optimal Growing Temp
60°F - 75°F
French tarragon prefers moderate temperatures. Grows best in spring and fall. Heat reduces flavor.
Survival Range
30°F - 85°F
Can survive these temperatures
Frost Note: Hardy to zone 4-5. Dies back to ground in winter, regrows from roots in spring. Needs winter chill for best growth.
Best USDA Zones
Humidity
40-60%
Tolerates moderate humidity. Good drainage essential.
Height
18-24 inches
Spread
12-18 inches
Growth Habit
spreading
Germination
N/A
True French tarragon does NOT produce viable seed. Must be propagated from cuttings or divisions.
Seedling Stage
Duration: N/A
True leaves: If you have tarragon seeds, they are Russian tarragon—different plant with inferior flavor.
Transplant ready: Buy plants or get divisions from established French tarragon.
Vegetative Growth
Duration: Spring through fall
Spreads via underground rhizomes. Narrow, aromatic leaves with anise flavor. Harvest sprigs anytime.
Flowering
Timing: Rarely flowers (sterile hybrid)
Duration: N/A
True French tarragon rarely flowers. If it flowers abundantly, it may be Russian tarragon.
Harvest Maturity
Timing: 60-90 days to full harvest from divisions
- Dense, bushy growth
- Strong anise aroma
- Spreading habit
Per Plant
1-2 cups fresh leaves per plant over the season.
Per Square Foot
1-2 plants per square foot
Harvest Frequency
Harvest sprigs as needed. Best flavor before any flowering.
Factors Affecting Yield
- •Cool weather for best flavor
- •Regular harvest
- •Proper variety (French, not Russian)
Seedling Stage
Keep divisions moist while establishing.
Established Plants
Water when top inch dry. Every 4-5 days.
During Fruiting
N/A—rarely flowers.
Preferred Method
Water at soil level. Good drainage important.
Pro Tips
- Moderate water needs
- Well-draining soil essential
Feeding Schedule
Spring
Light compost
Once annually
Organic Options
Light feeding. Rich soil can reduce flavor.
Minimum Size
10 inch pot
Recommended Size
12-14 inch pot
Depth Required
At least 10-12 inches
Best Varieties for Containers
Container Tips
- Good container plant
- Use well-draining soil
- May need to divide every 2-3 years
- Allow winter dormancy in cold climate
