French tarragon

a.k.a. Tarragon, estragon
latin name: Artemisia dracunulus

zone: 3-7
type: perennial
light: full sun
height: 1.5 – 3 feet (45 cm – 1 m)

description:  Hardy, aromatic perennial with upright, branched stems bearing smooth leaves, with a licorice aroma.  The tiny, green flowers do not open or produce viable seed in the cools summers.  Do not confuse French tarragon with Russian tarragon which does produce seed but whose flavor of the leaves is more pungent and less pleasant.    

harvest:  In early spring, pick fresh leaves and stalks to make tarragon vinegar.  Pick leaves fresh to use throughout the growing season.   

culinary notes:  Leaves are used to flavour chicken, egg dishes, salad dressings, vinegar, mustard, and sauces, such as béarnaise, béchamel, and tartare.  Use leaves sparingly in cooking because of its strong flavour.