Kitchen Herbs - Mexican Tarragon

(Tagetes lucida)

A sun-loving treasure from Mexico, this hardy, multistemmed herb thrives in summer heat where traditional French tarragon often falters. Handsome, narrow green leaves have a delightful anise fragrance and sweet, licorice-like flavor that complements savory dishes and infusions. In late summer and fall, the drought tolerant plants are crowned with cheerful clusters of small, golden-yellow flowers that brighten the garden and provide a late-season feast for pollinators.