Tarragon, known scientifically as Artemisia dracunculus, is a widely sought-after herb, particularly valued for its distinct, delicate anise-like flavor that elevates classic French cuisine. If you are looking to cultivate this perennial herb at home, purchasing a healthy plant is the most reliable way to begin. The specific variety you choose and the quality of the plant at the time of purchase will determine its success and the culinary value of your harvest.
Essential Tarragon Varieties for Purchase
When seeking tarragon, you will encounter three main types, but only one is considered the standard for fine cooking. French Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus var. sativa) is the most desired culinary variety, prized for its refined, bittersweet, and intense licorice flavor that is indispensable in dishes like Béarnaise sauce. This variety is sterile, meaning it does not produce viable seeds, and must be propagated from root divisions or stem cuttings.
A second type, Russian Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculoides), is often mistaken for the French variety due to its similar appearance. Russian tarragon is much hardier, more vigorous, and can be easily grown from seed. However, its flavor is significantly weaker, often described as grassy or having a bitter undertone, making it unsuitable for French cooking. Finally, Mexican Mint Marigold (Tagetes lucida), also known as Mexican tarragon, is a warm-weather substitute. It offers a more robust anise flavor than the Russian type and is a reliable option where French tarragon struggles to thrive in hot, humid climates.
Locating Reputable Sources for Plants
Local Independent Nurseries and Garden Centers are excellent places to start, as their staff often possess expert knowledge and can confirm the propagation method of their plants. These centers tend to have better quality control over their stock and offer plants that are already acclimatized to your regional environment. However, their supply of French tarragon can be limited due to the difficulty of vegetative propagation.
For gardeners prioritizing the guaranteed French variety, Online Specialty Herb Nurseries are a highly reliable option. These businesses often specialize in difficult-to-propagate herbs and will explicitly state that their French tarragon plants were grown from cuttings or divisions. When ordering online, look for suppliers with positive reviews regarding plant packaging and shipping to ensure the delicate herb arrives in good condition.
Large Big Box Stores and Home Improvement Centers should be approached with caution. The tarragon they sell is sometimes mislabeled or may be the less flavorful Russian variety, especially if the label simply says “Tarragon.” Tarragon plants are generally available for purchase in the spring and early summer.
Quality Checks When Buying Tarragon
A thorough physical inspection of the plant is necessary before finalizing the purchase. Begin by examining the foliage for any signs of disease or pests, such as tiny dark spots, yellowing leaves, or a white, powdery coating, which can indicate a fungal infection like powdery mildew. You should also check the undersides of the leaves and the stem joints for small insects like aphids or the fine webbing of spider mites.
The stems should be firm and look healthy, avoiding any that appear brittle, mushy, or blackened, which can be a sign of poor health. Inspect the root system, looking for roots that are white and firm. Avoid plants with roots that are brown, mushy, or circling the pot excessively, as this indicates a severely root-bound state or root rot from overwatering.
Finally, check the soil condition. The medium should be moist but not soaking wet, as waterlogged soil is a common cause of rot in tarragon.