Russian Tarragon
Artemisia_dracunculoides - Russian Tarragon
Russian Tarragon is an herb. Some people call it “mugwort.” Be careful not to confuse tarragon with mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris). There are two cultivars of this species: French Tarragon is used as a spice in cuisine and here Russian Tarragon.
Medicinal Uses
The parts of the Russian tarragon plant that grow above the ground are used to make medicine and it is used to treat digestion problems, poor appetite, water retention, and toothache; to start menstruation; and to promote sleep.
In manufacturing, tarragon is used as a fragrance in soaps and cosmetics.
It has also been used medically in Russia and middle Asia, mainly to treat gastrointestinal disorders
Tarragon is a good source of potassium, It also contains ingredients that seem to be able to fight certain bacteria.
Teas
Tarragon tea (a handful of leaves in hot water, steeped for 5 minutes) can be used as a mild sedative to help relieve anxiety and stress. Make a cup before bed for a good night's sleep. The tea can also relieve gas, indigestion and help cure hiccups.
Growing Healthy Russian Tarragon
Although Russian Tarragon can handle cooler temperatures better than its French counterpart, it thrives best in warmer conditions, ideally between 15 to 25c mins (60 and 75° F). Ours are thriving in full sun with temperatures of over 40c in August.
While it doesn't need direct sunlight all day, a spot with at least 6 hours of sunlight will help your tarragon plants flourish. The more sunlight your plants get, the better the tarragon flavor will be.
More information on the PFAF (plants for all life) website here.
Small 2nd year plants in 1L pots
