Contents
Description
Artemisia Dracunculus Sativa, commonly known as French tarragon, is a perennial herb of the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia but is now widely cultivated in many parts of the world. The plant has a woody stem and green leaves that are lance-shaped and slightly glossy. It can reach a height of up to 1 meter and produces small, yellow-green flowers in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus ||——–|———|——–|——-|——-|——–|——-|| Eukarya | Plantae | Spermatophyta | Magnoliopsida | Asterales | Asteraceae | Artemisia |
Appearance
French tarragon has green leaves that are narrow, pointed, and slightly glossy. The leaves can grow up to 10 centimeters long and 2 centimeters wide. The plant has a woody stem that is brown in color and can grow up to 1 meter tall. The flowers are small and yellow-green in color and bloom in the summer. French tarragon has a unique aroma and flavor that is often used in culinary dishes.
Care Guide
– Water: French tarragon requires regular watering, but the soil should not be waterlogged. It is best to water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: French tarragon does not require a lot of fertilizer. A balanced fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season.- Soil: French tarragon prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal.- Sunlight: French tarragon requires full sunlight to thrive. It should be planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: French tarragon is hardy to USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
French tarragon is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. Regular monitoring of the plant and prompt treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control these pests. Root rot can occur if the plant is overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
French tarragon is native to Europe and Asia but is now widely cultivated in many parts of the world. It prefers a warm, dry climate and is often grown in herb gardens, containers, or as a companion plant in vegetable gardens. French tarragon is commonly used in French cuisine and is a popular ingredient in sauces, dressings, and marinades.
Question and Answer
Q: How do I propagate French tarragon?
A: French tarragon can be propagated by dividing the plant in the spring or by taking stem cuttings in the summer.
Q: Can French tarragon be grown indoors?
A: Yes, French tarragon can be grown indoors in a sunny window or under grow lights.
Q: How often should I harvest French tarragon?
A: French tarragon can be harvested throughout the growing season. It is best to harvest the leaves before the plant flowers for the best flavor.
Q: Can French tarragon be used in medicinal remedies?
A: French tarragon has been used in traditional medicine for its antiseptic and digestive properties, but it should be used in moderation and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Related Plants
– Artemisia abrotanum (Southernwood)- Artemisia annua (Sweet Wormwood)- Artemisia absinthium (Common Wormwood)- Artemisia vulgaris (Mugwort)
References
– “Artemisia dracunculus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed March 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b553.- “Tarragon, French.” The Old Farmer’s Almanac. Accessed March 15, 2021. https://www.almanac.com/plant/tarragon-french.
