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Tarragon - going wild.

barb_roselover_in

18 years ago

I planted some tarragon--I believe French Tarragon, and that stuff is growing wild. It is so tall and looks like a weed. Can somebody tell me--is this stuff okay to eat and how to use it. I was flabbergasted that it grew like it did. Would it be better if I just grubbed some of it out? Thanks for the help - Barb

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Comments (9)

herbalbetty
18 years ago
Hi Barb,

If you planted French tarragon, the leaves should smell and taste lightly of anise with a little bite. If you planted Russian tarragon, the leaves will be bitter and bland. Don't eat the Russian tarragon (other than to test it). But, French tarragon is absolutely delicious! If you planted seed, you've got Russian tarragon.
nygardener
18 years ago
If it is French tarragon, it's great chopped in salads (where a little goes a long way), on fish, in chicken salad ... and try tarragon pesto, which rocks.
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barb_roselover_in
Original Author
18 years ago
Finally had a chance tonight to go out and taste. Phooey - it was bitter. Somebody sold me a bill of goods. I was under the impression it was French Tarragon. Any place where they might still have this available? I wanted some to carry over with some of my other herbs. Thanks for taking the time to reply . - Barb
nygardener
18 years ago
Check around at your local weekend farmers' markets, or ask your nursery if it can order some. Or wait a few weeks for the weather to cool (so that the plants will arrive in better shape) and order some mail order.
Marty_Maraschino
18 years ago
So, I guess I planted Russian tarragon not French. What is it good for besides the dumpster? Is it even edible at all?
briarwoods
18 years ago
I would keep it to fill up some naked garden areas. Thats what I will do with mine. I purchased seeds as well and thought they were the edible kind.
rosebush
18 years ago
Bummer! I planted tarragon from seed thinking it was French. I have lots of little sprouts. :(
rosebush
18 years ago
Okay, so please clarify: My seeds said "artemesia redowski" and when I searched that one came up as "tarragon," NOT Russian tarragon, which I found separately on the same site. Is ths redowski okay for cooking??? Thanks!
chervil2
18 years ago
French tarragon is propagated by cuttings instead of seeds. I find that the plant is difficult to grow in my present location. I am very thankful if French tarragon makes it through the winter in my location since it usually dies. I wish this plant was invasive since I have trouble growing it.

Chervil2

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