Herb Tagetes Dropshot
The sweet, aniseed flavour of this unusual annual herb will appeal to liquorice-lovers! A member of the marigold family, Tagetes ‘Dropshot’ has insignificant flowers but wonderful feathery foliage with a sweet anise flavour. ‘Dropshot’ adds an extra flavour dimension to dishes and is gaining popularity with top chefs as a versatile ingredient for teas, desserts, drinks, main dishes and salads. It can also be treated as a substitute for French tarragon, but is much easier to grow. It forms low, cushion-like mounds that are perfect for pots or border edges.
Height and spread: 15-25cm (6-10in).
The sweet, aniseed flavour of this unusual annual herb will appeal to liquorice-lovers! A member of the marigold family, Tagetes ‘Dropshot’ has insignificant flowers but wonderful feathery foliage with a sweet anise flavour. ‘Dropshot’ adds an extra flavour dimension to dishes and is gaining popularity with top chefs as a versatile ingredient for teas, desserts, drinks, main dishes and salads. It can also be treated as a substitute for French tarragon, but is much easier to grow. It forms low, cushion-like mounds that are perfect for pots or border edges.
Height and spread: 15-25cm (6-10in).
The sweet, aniseed flavour of this unusual annual herb will appeal to liquorice-lovers! A member of the marigold family, Tagetes ‘Dropshot’ has insignificant flowers but wonderful feathery foliage with a sweet anise flavour. ‘Dropshot’ adds an extra flavour dimension to dishes and is gaining popularity with top chefs as a versatile ingredient for teas, desserts, drinks, main dishes and salads. It can also be treated as a substitute for French tarragon, but is much easier to grow. It forms low, cushion-like mounds that are perfect for pots or border edges.
Height and spread: 15-25cm (6-10in).
Sow on the surface of lightly firmed, moist seed compost in pots or trays and cover with a fine sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Place in a propagator or in a warm place or windowsill and keep at a temperature between 21-25°C. Do not exclude light as this helps germination which usually takes 7-21 days. When large enough to handle, pot on into individual pots and plant out after the last frost at 30cm spacings or in pots.
Water regularly whilst establishing. Once established, pick leaves regularly and keep well fed to promote new foliage growth.
