Tarragon

Sow seeds 2 cm deep. Germination 7 to 14 days.

Tarragon does best in full sun location with well drained soil and appreciates peat or organic compost.

The word tarragon is thought to be derived from the Latin dracunculus, a little dragon. It is reported to be a native of Mongolia and Siberia. It is also known as estragon, and is a species of perennial herb in the family Asteraceae.

Tarragon is mentioned briefly in medieval writings as a pharmaceutical but did not come into a more common use until the16th century in England. Russian tarragon Artemisia dracunculus var. inodora flavour is not as strong as the French variety, but it is found to be hardier. Russian tarragon leaves are rich in Iodine, Vitamins A and C as well as and beneficial mineral salts. In its historic past Tarragons root was claimed to cure toothache by chewing on it.