Growing French tarragon

Artemisia dracunculus : Asteraceae / the daisy family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
P                   P P

(Best months for growing French tarragon in New Zealand - cool/mountain regions)

  • P = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • Plant cuttings or root division. Best planted at soil temperatures between 50°F and 77°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 16 - 24 inches apart
  • Harvest in 6-8 weeks. Pick leaves when young for best flavour.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Aubergine (Eggplant) and Capsicum (Peppers)
  • New Spring growth

French tarragon a half hardy perennial herb that is native of southern Europe. It is frost tender, which may be one of the reasons that it is not particularly widely grown. French tarragon is easy to grow but rarely sets seeds. It is propagated by division, or from cuttings. Seed grown tarragon is usually Russian tarragon which does not have such a good flavour.

French tarragon must have a sunny position. The site should be sheltered from winds and winter frosts. Keep well watered in dry weather. In autumn, mulch plants with a thick layer of straw or similar, to protect it over the winter. Tarragon prefers well-drained soil which is not too high in nutrients. It will do equally well in full sun or partial shade.

Culinary hints - cooking and eating French tarragon

Tarragon goes well with fish, pork, beef, poultry, game, potatoes, tomatoes, carrots, and most vegetables. Can be used in cream sauces, herbed butters and vinegars, soups, sour creams, and yogurt. However, it can be overpowering in large amounts.

Your comments and tips

03 Oct 20, Wallis Weir (New Zealand - temperate climate)
I am looking for some French Tarragon. Can you help please.
19 Nov 20, Nui (New Zealand - temperate climate)
I found some at Mitre 10 this week
09 Oct 20, (New Zealand - temperate climate)
Google where to buy in NZ
08 Oct 20, (New Zealand - temperate climate)
Check internet sites.
22 Feb 17, Martin Gillion (New Zealand - temperate climate)
Any idea where I can buy F Tarragon plants in Auckland - North Shore?
23 Feb 17, John (Australia - temperate climate)
Plant Zero in Aucklnd list French Tarragon. There may be others. P: 0275197108

Any idea who sells it in CA? Can’t find anything but Russian Tarragon! Thank you

- Sonja

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. GardenGrow is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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