Tarragon (French Tarragon, Dragonwort)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Asterales, Family: Asteraceae, Genus: Artemisia, Species: Artemisia dracunculus · Asteraceae (Daisy, Aster, or Sunflower family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Artemisia dracunculus
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Asteraceae (Daisy, Aster, or Sunflower family)
Shape
Linear to lanceolate
Size
Approximately 1-2 inches long and 0.1-0.2 inches wide, typical for the species
Margin
Entire (smooth)
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Very Common in cultivation; common in wild habitats across its native range
Color & Pattern
Muted grayish-green to silvery-green upper and lower surfaces, typical of pressed herbarium specimens with minimal fading
Venation Pattern
Pinnate with a central midrib
Texture & Surface
Smooth to finely pubescent, delicate herbaceous texture
Description
Artemisia dracunculus is a perennial herb forming bushy clumps of slender, branching stems adorned with narrow, aromatic leaves and small, greenish-yellow flower heads. It is widely prized for its distinctive anise-like scent and flavor.
Key Features
Narrow, linear to lanceolate leaves with an entire margin, distinct aromatic anise or licorice scent when crushed, and branching slender stems
Habitat
Dry, well-draining soils in sunny locations, often found in open grasslands, steppes, and cultivated garden beds
Geographic Range
Native to a wide area of the Northern Hemisphere, including parts of Eurasia, western North America, and widely cultivated globally
Condition Notes
Well-preserved pressed herbarium specimen showing good structural integrity and typical coloration for a dried plant
Interesting Facts
The species name 'dracunculus' translates to 'little dragon', likely referring to the serpentine shape of its root system or its historical use in treating serpent bites
Medicinal & Uses
Extensively used in culinary arts, especially French cuisine, for flavoring sauces, vinegars, and poultry. Traditionally used in herbal medicine to stimulate appetite and aid digestion
Ecological Role
Serves as a host plant for certain moth caterpillars and attracts various beneficial pollinating insects with its inconspicuous flowers
Similar Species
Russian tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus var. dracunculoides), which is coarser, less aromatic, has paler green leaves, and is grown from seed rather than root cuttings
Foraging Tips
Look for established garden herb beds or dry, open waste areas; confirm identity by crushing a leaf to check for the characteristic sweet anise fragrance
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic when consumed in normal culinary amounts; safe for humans and pets