Description
Rue Seeds – Ruta graveolens
Grow your own Rue (Ruta graveolens), also known as Common Rue or Herb-of-Grace. This distinctive perennial herb is native to southeastern Europe and has been grown in gardens around the world for centuries.
Rue is particularly attractive for its unusual blue-green foliage and small yellow flowers. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate relatively hot and dry conditions once established, making it an interesting addition to herb gardens, cottage gardens and ornamental borders.
Growing Rue from Seed
Rue prefers a sunny position with well-drained soil. Choose a location where excess water can drain freely, as Rue generally performs best in relatively dry conditions once established.
Sow the seeds in a suitable seed-raising mix and keep the growing medium lightly moist while they germinate. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them carefully into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Give the plants enough space to develop as they mature. Rue can form an attractive, bushy perennial and its blue-green foliage provides an interesting contrast to greener plants.
Caring for Rue
Rue is relatively low-maintenance once established. It prefers plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil and generally copes well with periods of dry weather.
Water young plants regularly while they establish, then reduce watering as appropriate for the growing conditions. Avoid consistently wet soil, particularly during cooler periods.
Rue can be lightly pruned to maintain a compact shape and encourage fresh growth. The plant produces small yellow flowers during the warmer months, adding further interest to the garden.
Traditional Uses of Rue
Rue has a long history as a traditional European herb. It has been grown both as an ornamental plant and for its aromatic foliage.
Traditionally, the herb has been used in a variety of household and herbal preparations. The dried foliage has also been used in aromatic sachets and other traditional preparations.
Rue has a strong, distinctive fragrance and contains naturally occurring compounds that can irritate the skin. Take care when handling the fresh plant, and avoid prolonged skin contact, particularly in strong sunlight.
Rue Plant Information
Botanical name: Ruta graveolens
Common names: Rue, Common Rue, Herb-of-Grace
Family: Rutaceae
Plant type: Perennial herb
Foliage: Blue-green, aromatic leaves
Flowers: Small yellow flowers
Growing conditions: Full sun, well-drained soil
Form: Seeds
