Artemisia Dracunculus
Contents
Description
Artemisia Dracunculus, commonly known as tarragon plant, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to central Asia and has been used in cooking and medicine for centuries. The plant has narrow, green leaves that are pointed at the tip and grow up to 3 inches long. It produces small, yellowish-green flowers that bloom in late summer. The plant has a sweet, anise-like flavor and is commonly used as a seasoning in French cuisine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Artemisia |
Appearance
The tarragon plant has narrow, green leaves that are pointed at the tip and grow up to 3 inches long. The leaves are smooth and glossy and have a slightly curved shape. The plant produces small, yellowish-green flowers that bloom in late summer. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the top of the stems and have a slightly spicy aroma. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide, and it has a bushy, branching growth habit.
Care Guide
To care for the tarragon plant, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil and regular watering. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, although it is best suited for hardiness zones 4-8. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer, and prune it back in the fall to promote new growth. The plant can be propagated by division in the spring or by stem cuttings in the summer.
Common Pests & Diseases
The tarragon plant is generally pest-resistant, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or grown in poorly draining soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
The tarragon plant is native to central Asia and is commonly grown in temperate climates around the world. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant can be grown in containers or in the ground and is a popular herb in herb gardens and vegetable gardens. It is also commonly grown commercially for use in the food and medicine industries.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best time to harvest tarragon?
A: Tarragon can be harvested throughout the growing season, but it is best to harvest the leaves when the plant is in full bloom.
Q: How do you store fresh tarragon?
A: To store fresh tarragon, wrap it in a damp paper towel and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to a week.
Q: What are the health benefits of tarragon?
A: Tarragon has been used in traditional medicine to treat digestive problems, toothaches, and menstrual cramps. It is also a good source of antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Q: How do you use tarragon in cooking?
A: Tarragon is commonly used as a seasoning in French cuisine, and it pairs well with chicken, fish, and vegetables. It can be used fresh or dried and can be added to soups, stews, sauces, and marinades.
Related Plants
- Artemisia Vulgaris
- Artemisia Annua
- Artemisia Absinthium
- Artemisia Montana
References
- “Artemisia Dracunculus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f330.
- “Tarragon.” The Old Farmer’s Almanac, www.almanac.com/plant/tarragon.
- “Tarragon.” Purdue University Center for New Crops and Plants Products, www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/CropFactSheets/tarragon.html.
