Bayburt Tarhunu

Bayburt Tarhunu is a perennial herb belonging to the species Artemisia dracunculus L., cultivated in the Bayburt province of Türkiye, known for its medicinal and aromatic properties. It was officially registered with a “Geographical Indication” by the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office on 15 April 2025.

Bayburt Tarhunu is a perennial shrub-like plant with a taproot and short lateral roots. Its stem is light green and circular in cross-section, reaching a height of 30–45 cm. The leaves are pointed, spine-tipped, slightly toothed, and vary in color from light green to dark green, with a slightly hairy surface.

The high altitude of Bayburt at 1550 meters and the microclimatic conditions of the valleys around the Çoruh River directly influence the quality and yield of the product. The plant is resistant to temperatures as low as -35°C. The soil in which it grows has a slightly alkaline pH (7.7–7.9), high lime content (17.31%), high potassium levels (43.8 kg/da), and low salinity (0.01%).

Bayburt Tarhunu is distinguished by its high levels of fixed oil (5.39–7.022%), dry matter (34.16–41.62%), and volatile oil content (0.30–1.40%). Forty-two compounds have been identified in its volatile oil, most of which contribute to its aromatic profile. The most prominent components include estragole, camphor, 1,8-cineole, borneol, and linalool.

Bayburt Tarhunu is propagated exclusively by vegetative means—root division. Propagation begins at the end of April, using root segments from mother plants. Seedlings are planted with a row spacing of 50–60 cm and a plant spacing of 40–50 cm within rows. The plant forms clumps of 25–30 cm in diameter within three years. When necessary, it is transplanted to other areas within the same parcel or to new parcels.

^{Bayburt Tarhunu Planting} (Bayburt University)

No irrigation is performed until the first harvest. Natural rainfall supports plant development during the year. After each harvest, weekly irrigation is carried out. The plant is weeded three times before the first harvest and once after each subsequent harvest. Weeding is performed to aerate the soil and control weeds.

Before planting, the soil is prepared with well-rotted farmyard manure. In spring, 15 kg/da of nitrogen fertilizer is applied. Mechanical methods are preferred over chemical interventions for weed and disease control. Problematic seedlings are removed from the production area if necessary.

^{Bayburt Tarhunu Garden} (Bayburt University)

Bayburt Tarhunu is harvested three times per year: 1–20 June, 1–15 August, and 15–25 September. Harvesting is done with a sickle, cutting at the lowest point above the soil surface. Drying is carried out in well-ventilated areas protected from direct sunlight. After separation from the main stem, leaves are sorted by size, cleaned, and packaged. A proper drying method preserves the leaf color.

The product is stored in dry cloth bags or plastic packaging. It is recommended to store in a cool, dry environment.

Production is restricted exclusively within the boundaries of Bayburt province. Monitoring is conducted by a commission of at least three members coordinated by Bayburt University, comprising representatives from the university, the Provincial Directorate of Agriculture, the Chamber of Agriculture, and producers. Monitoring occurs at least once annually and may be increased upon complaint or on a periodic basis.