Ruta graveolens (Rue) is a perennial herb plant that is native to the Balkan Peninsula and popular as an ornamental around the world. Rue is tolerant of poor soils and both hot and cold climates, while also serves as a culinary spice, medicinal herb, insect repellent and a beautiful decoration in the garden. In some European countries, Rue is also a plant of some cultural significance.
Suitable for Temperate and Dry, Sub-Tropical climates.
Ruta graveolens is also commonly known as the Herb of Grace and the Common Rue plant. The term Rue is likely because of the bitter taste of the leaves. Literally, you will ‘rue’ the day you tried it. Rue is also a very versatile plant. It is used to make red dye, a medicinal herb, a beautiful bordering flower, in perfumes, as incense, food flavouring and to repel moths, insects and cats.
Rue also makes a useful plant companion for Lavender, Raspberries and Roses.
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Growth
Ruta graveolens is a perennial shrub that rarely grows higher or wider than 1 metre (3 feet). The branches are woody and support bluish leaves that are oblong, arranged pinnate and they release a strong orange-scented aroma if bruised.
Rue plants grow in a wide variety of soils and enjoy both hot sunny days and will tolerate frosts during winter. The yellow flowers grow in clusters of up to five and are very attractive to bees and butterflies.
Note: Germination instructions can be found in the ‘Germination Instructions Tab’ below. Upon purchase you will receive these detailed instructions via email so that you have a permanent record.
FAMILY:
Rutaceae
CLIMATE:
Temperate, Dry and Sub-Tropical
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
-10-30°C / 14-86°F.
SOIL TYPE:
Well-draining.
LOCATION:
Full Sun.
HEIGHT:
Up to 100cm (3 feet)
WIDTH:
Up to 100cm (3 feet)
pH:
6.5-8.0
GROWTH TYPE:
Perennial.
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Light
POLLINATION:
Bees.
MATURITY:
100-120 days
GERMINATION RATES:
75-85%
GERMINATION TIME:
7-21 days at temperatures between 15-22°C / 59-71°F
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Easy
SEEDS PER GRAM:
Approximately 800
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
Yes
WEED POTENTIAL:
Yes.
EDIBLE:
Yes, although it is bitter.
SEED STORAGE & VIABILITY:
Cold Storage at 4°C (Fridge) up to 4 years.
FACTS ABOUT RUTA GRAVEOLENS (Rue)
The Latin translation for graveolens means strong-smelling leaves.
In Ancient Rome, it was recommended to combine Rue with the poisonous shrub Oleander as a cure for snake bites.
Most cats dislike the smell of Rue and it can be used as a deterrent to them.
Rue is the national herb of Lithuania and is used as a symbol of purity for young brides on their wedding day.
For more information about the versatility of Rue please click here.
