Home › French Tarragon › Grow in North Carolina

Can You Grow French Tarragon in North Carolina?

US · USDA Zone 7b · zones 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a

Grows well here

French tarragon thrives as a perennial in your zone — plant once and harvest for years.

Plant zones

3a–9b

North Carolina last frost

late February

North Carolina first frost

early December

Days to harvest

60–90 days

When to plant French Tarragons in North Carolina

Direct sow

Feb 28

Harvest

Apr 29 – May 29

Dates are approximate, based on North Carolina's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About French Tarragon

French tarragon is the gourmet herb of classic French cuisine — anise-scented leaves that elevate chicken, fish, and béarnaise sauce. A perennial that comes back reliably each spring.

Buy transplants (true French tarragon does not grow true from seed — Russian tarragon is inferior). Plant in well-drained soil — root rot is the main killer. Divide every 3-4 years to maintain vigor. Cut back to 2 inches in fall.

Full french tarragon growing guide →

Gardening in North Carolina

North Carolina spans the mountains (Zone 5b-6a), Piedmont (Zone 7a-7b), and coastal plain (Zone 8a). Long warm seasons support tobacco, sweet potatoes, and a wide range of vegetables.