Russian Tarragon, Tarragon, French Tarragon

Artemisia dracunculoides

Physical Characteristics

Artemisia dracunculoides is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower in September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

N. America. N. Europe. N. Asia - Siberia.

Habitats

Meadow; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Seed Edible Uses: Leaves - raw or cooked[46, 61, 105, 161]. The N. American Indians would bake the leaves between hot stones and then eat them with salt water[183, 216]. The leaves can also be eaten raw in salads but are inferior to A. dracunculus (Tarragon)[183]. The flavour is said to improve as the plant matures[200, 268]. Seed - raw or cooked. An oily texture[46, 61, 161, 183]. The seed is very small and fiddly to use[K].

Medicinal Uses

Antiscorbutic Diuretic Emmenagogue Hypnotic Stomachic The herb is antiscorbutic, diuretic, emmenagogue, hypnotic and stomachic[21, 46, 179]. The fresh herb is eaten to promote the appetite[268].

Known Hazards

Although no reports of toxicity have been seen for this species, skin contact with some members of this genus can cause dermatitis or other allergic reactions in some people[222].