Growing French tarragon (the only kind worth growing)

If a seed packet says "tarragon," it is Russian tarragon (*Artemisia dracunculus* subsp. *dracunculoides*), and it tastes of very little. True French tarragon (*Artemisia dracunculus* var. *sativa*) does not produce viable seed and must be propagated vegetatively. This is the essential fact about.

If a seed packet says "tarragon," it is Russian tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus subsp. dracunculoides), and it tastes of very little. True French tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus var. sativa) does not produce viable seed and must be propagated vegetatively. This is the essential fact about tarragon that every guide needs to state upfront.

Per Penn State Extension, French tarragon contains estragole (methyl chavicol), a volatile compound responsible for its distinctive anise-licorice flavor. Russian tarragon contains far lower concentrations of this compound and essentially lacks culinary value.

I don't grow tarragon in my Melville garden — I've prioritized other herbs in my raised beds. This guide is sourced from Extension publications.

This article contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases - at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we have personally tested or that are the universal first recommendation from university Extension publications. See our full disclosure.

Identifying French vs Russian tarragon

Per Penn State Extension:

• French tarragon: Narrower, glossy leaves; does not produce viable seed; intense anise flavor when leaf is crushed; shorter and more compact (18-24 inches)
• Russian tarragon: Wider, duller leaves; produces seed readily; little to no flavor; taller and coarser (3+ feet)

The reliable test: rub a leaf between your fingers and taste it. If there is no immediate, clear anise flavor, it is Russian tarragon or a seed-grown hybrid. Send it back.