Organic Mexican tarragon ( Tagetes lucida ) – offered by Gaia, an aromatic herb with an anise scent and multiple uses
Mexican tarragon is a fragrant perennial plant , appreciated for its anise flavor with a subtle hint of citrus . Very versatile, it is used both in cooking and as an ornamental plant . It attracts pollinators , repels certain harmful insects such as aphids and grows easily in pots or in the ground .
Unlike French tarragon, this variety is more robust , more heat-resistant , and grows easily in well-drained, slightly acidic soil . It fits perfectly into an herb garden, flower bed, or container garden .
Did you know?
Mexican tarragon is also called "Aniseed Tagetes" or "Texas tarragon" . In traditional Mexican medicine, it is used for its digestive and calming properties , especially in the form of an infusion.
Spread : Bushy habit, compact growth
Plant height : 45 to 60 cm
Quantity per pack : ± 100 seeds
Companion plants : Chives, lemon balm, lemon thyme, parsley, rosemary, sage, eggplant, zucchini, carrot, squash, tomato, broccoli, beetroot, oregano, marigold, dill
Enemy plants : —
Cultivation method
Seeds should be started indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost to ensure good establishment in the garden. Mexican tarragon can also be propagated by cuttings , which allows for faster seedlings.
Sow in light, well-drained soil , spacing plants 6 inches apart and exposing them to full sun to partial shade . This plant requires little watering , preferring moderately dry to slightly moist soil.
Harvesting and conservation
The leaves can be harvested as soon as the plant is well established. The more you cut, the more it produces! Dried, they retain their powerful aroma , perfect for prolonged use in cooking.
How to use it in cooking?
If you are only familiar with French tarragon , Mexican tarragon can be used in the same way , but with a sweeter, lemonier note. It fits perfectly in:
Sauces and marinades (replaces tarragon in a béarnaise sauce or flavored butter)
Poultry and fish dishes (added at the end of cooking to preserve its aroma)
Teas and infusions (infused alone or with mint for a digestive drink)
Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes (added to beans, stews or salsas for deeper flavor)
Desserts (incorporated into a custard or compote for an aniseed touch)
With its unique flavor , ease of cultivation and multiple uses in cooking , Mexican tarragon is an aromatic plant that you absolutely must discover!
