Dragoncello Estragone

Class

Dicotyledoneae

Division

Angiospermae

Family

Asteracea or Compositae

Order

Asterales

Genus

Artemisia

Species

dracunculus

Description

Aromatic herbaceous perennial belonging to the botanical family of the Compositae along with calendula, chamomile, stevia but also artichoke and lettuce; widely used for its leaves with a strong aroma and flavour with spicy overtones. With a bushy habit and abundant branching, it is easy to grow in open fields, flowerbeds and pots in sunny positions sheltered from the wind.

Variety description

A plant whose young shoots and leaves are used. This variety has a distinctive aroma and is a very hardy selection. The aroma is not only intense but also similar to that of celery, with hints of aniseed. It is relatively easy to grow. Take care with watering, as it must never be excessive. Keep the plant sheltered from the wind and, if necessary, use supports to aid its growth. It is a moderately nutrient-demanding species and adapts well to various soil types. A standard planting will ensure a good, continuous yield over time, even for more than five years. It prefers sunny locations. It tolerates low temperatures (-10°C).

Curiosities and special features

The tenderest leaves, rich in flavonoids, minerals and vitamins, are used to flavour dishes such as salads, sauces and soups, or in the preparation of mustards and pickles.

Tarragon is also used in herbal medicine to make decoctions and infusions with analgesic, antiseptic and digestive-stimulating properties.

Origin and distribution

A species native to eastern Europe and eastern Siberia, it has long been used in traditional Asian medicine as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory, while in Europe and America its use as a culinary spice species is well established.

Leaf

The leaves, which have a characteristic aromatic flavour, arelanceolate in shape.

Fruit

The leaf has a medium texture, measuring 3 to 5 cm in length and 0.6 to 1 cm in width. It is harvested throughout the year and is a single colour. In terms of sensory characteristics, the flavour is bitter, aromatic, spicy and pungent, whilst the taste remains delicate and the aroma is strong, giving it a distinct scent. This variety is distinguished by its excellent organoleptic characteristics and wide range of culinary uses, thanks in part to a rather vigorous plant that keeps its leaves well spread out at all times.

Leaf colour

Solid colours.

Plant height

The plant’s height ranges from 0.8 to 1.2 m.

Lifespan

It is a perennial plant; during the winter months, its above-ground parts die back.

It is a perennial plant with a life cycle of 5–10 years.

Where to plant

Grown as a plant forflowerbeds, balconies, pots, large planters, open ground, terraces and outdoor planters.

Stem

The stem is semi-woody; the plant has no thorns.

Flower

The flower is medium-sized, with two-coloured petals. It grows in medium-sized head-like inflorescences. It flowers from mid-summer to early autumn, with a flowering period of between 15 and 45 days. It gives off a distinctive, strong scent. It attracts bees, butterflies and bumblebees.

Growth

Its growth ismoderately vigorous.

Plant habit

Plant with a characteristic bushy habit.

Branching

The plant’sprofuse branching adds to its appeal.

PH

For tarragon, the ideal soil pH ranges from slightly acidic to neutral, with values between 6.5 and 7.0.

Soil preparation

Before carrying out spring planting, it is advisable to give the soil a light dig, removing weeds and any residues from previous crops, stones or pebbles, then work in some granular organic fertiliser and break up the clods using a spade.

To encourage the drainage of excess water, create a raised bed by slightly mounding the soil. It is also advisable to use a stake during the early stages of growth and to work the topsoil with a hoe to remove any weeds.

Read more on the Joyflo blog

Sun exposure

Suitable for wind sheltered exposures in half shade, full sun, afternoon sun.

Ideal climate and temperature

The ideal temperature is between 18 and 24 °C during the growing season.

The survival temperature range is between -10 and 35 °C; it tolerates low temperatures well.

Use

It is a plant that is valued in various fields of application, such as:
Agri-food Medicinal / phytotherapeutic Aromatics

Hardiness

It is moderately hardy, tolerates low temperatures and prefers sunny positions.

Soil

It prefers medium-textured, deep, well-drained soil rich in organic matter; for growing in pots or containers, a horticultural compost containing brown and blond peat is recommended.

Difficulty

It is fairly easy to grow; overall, it requires little maintenance.

Growing tips

Below are some specific cultivation tips to help you achieve the best yields:
Balanced fertilisation Avoid over-watering

Intercropping/combination

Can be grown in intercropping with cress and radish.

Planting

When transplanting into a raised bed, it is advisable to plant at an average density of 20 plants per square metre, taking care to position the stolons at the correct depth whilst leaving the plant’s growing tip above the soil. During the early stages of growth, it is advisable to use a stake and raffia or twine ties to support the plant’s growth.

Pruning

Remove any dry or excess parts to allow the plant to grow properly.

In the first year after planting, the crop is harvested by mowing it to a height of 15 cm in late summer. From the second year onwards, it is mowed to a height of 10 cm during the pre-flowering stage, when the basal leaves begin to dry out.

A second cut is possible in late summer if seasonal conditions are favourable; the yield from this second cut is usually of lower quality and is generally sent for distillation.

Propagation

Propagation can be carried out by sowing seeds in the open field or in containers; alternatively, it can be done by dividing the clump.

Repotting

Repotting in spring in a larger pot size with suitable potting soil if the plant shows stunted growth with roots completely enveloping the substrate.

Watering

Use rainwater, or alternatively tap water or canal water with an optimal neutral pH, either by hand or using a drip irrigation system.

It is advisable to ensure the root ball is well-moistened before transplanting.

Water immediately after planting and help the seedling to adapt properly to its new location, without, however, overwatering and ensuring the soil remains consistently moist. Thereafter, allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, keeping it slightly moist but without letting the plant wilt.

Water the plant periodically in the morning so that the leaves are completely dry by evening; this also helps to protect the plant against possible attacks by pathogens.

Watering after harvesting helps the plant to develop new growth and thus ensures continuous production over time.

When sowing, after burying the seed completely and covering it with growing medium and non-woven fabric, keep the soil moist until the shoot emerges.

Read more on the Joyflo blog

Fertilising

When preparing the soil prior to planting, apply a base dressing by working granular organo-mineral fertiliser into the soil to ensure the seedling has the nutrients it needs during the early stages of growth.

Once the plant has become properly established in its new location, during the spring and summer months, apply a liquid fertiliser specifically designed for vegetable crops, diluting it in the irrigation water according to the appropriate dosages and application frequencies as indicated on the label of the product purchased.

Read more on the Joyflo blog

Edibility for humans

The plant has edible leaves.

Toxicity for humans

The leaves are not toxic to humans if ingested in appropriate quantities; assess each case individually.

Tip

The species is perennial, meaning it occupies the cultivated land for at least five years. It is essential that, at the time of planting, the soil is free and clear of perennial weeds such as Cynodon dactylon, Sorghum halepensis, Convolvolus arvensis, Cyperus esculentum and species with similar growth habits, such as Rumex spp. and Polygonum convolvolus.