Artemisia dracunculus aka Tarragon

Artemisia dracunculus, or wild tarragon, belongs to the sunflower family. This perennial grows across temperate parts of the Northern Hemisphere. Its range also reaches mountains in the tropics. Sources differ on its origins in western North America. Some list it as native; others suggest introduced populations. Wild plants grow in meadows, roadside ground, and desert scrub. The species varies in leaf scent and taste.

Garden plants grow about 1–3 feet [0.3–0.91 metres] tall. RHS gives a garden height reaching 3.3 feet [1 metre]. It also reports taller plants reaching 4.9 feet [1.5 metres]. Clumps spread about 1–1.6 feet [0.3–0.5 metres] wide. Upright stems rise from creeping rhizomes and bear slender branches. The stems range from green to reddish brown. They may have short hairs and become woody near the base. Narrow, simple leaves grow in an alternate pattern. Their colour ranges from grey-green to medium green. Most have smooth edges, though some have uneven lobes. The plant loses its leaves for winter.

Small flowerheads appear in branched clusters during July and August. Their colour ranges from greenish white to pale yellow. These flowers offer little show compared with the foliage. The wild species forms viable seeds and may self-sow. Rhizomes also help it spread beyond the first clump. Leaf flavour can be weak, bland, or unpleasant. This makes wild tarragon less useful for cooking than selected forms.

Grow it in full sun with soil that drains well. Rich soil with dry to moderate moisture suits it. Neutral soil is preferred, though RHS lists a wider pH range. It tolerates drought once growing in suitable conditions. Sources give USDA zones 3–7 or 3–8 and UK rating H6. Wet soil can cause root and crown rot. Damp summers and cold, wet winters may weaken plants. RHS also lists honey fungus but reports few pest problems. Cut old growth back in spring to renew the clump. Divide clumps every two to four years to maintain growth.

Wild tarragon suits herb gardens, pots, and areas left to naturalise. Its loose growth can look weedy in formal beds. Native Americans used its leaves and seeds for food. They also used several plant parts in traditional medicine. The plant has served as an insect repellent. Small, occasional culinary amounts are considered safe for people. Contact with its oils can cause a skin rash. It is toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. ASPCA lists vomiting and diarrhoea after ingestion.