Rue

Rue – Ruta graveolens
Rue is a hardy, aromatic perennial herb with blue-green foliage and a long history of use in traditional medicine, magic, and gardening. Native to the Mediterranean region, Ruta graveolens has been grown for centuries in monastery and apothecary gardens for its medicinal and protective properties. Its feathery, pungent leaves and small yellow flowers make it both ornamental and functional, especially in herb spirals, medicinal gardens, and as a low-maintenance companion plant.

Rue contains rutin, a flavonoid valued for its anti-inflammatory and vasoprotective effects. Traditionally, the leaves were used in very small quantities as a bitter digestive, muscle relaxant, and remedy for eyestrain and circulatory issues. Caution: Rue is a strong herb and must be used with care—it can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals and should not be used during pregnancy.

Key Characteristics

• Traditional Herb with Deep Medicinal Roots
  Rue’s leaves were used sparingly as a tea or tincture for headaches, digestive support, varicose veins, and to relax smooth muscles. Contains the bioactive compound rutin. Its strong bitter profile also made it a historic vermifuge and insect repellent.

• Blue-Green, Aromatic Foliage
  The finely divided, glaucous leaves give a striking silver-blue hue in the garden and emit a strong, musky scent when brushed. Makes a lovely accent in dry herb gardens or formal knot gardens.

• Yellow Summer Flowers and Pollinator Value
  Clusters of small, four-petaled yellow flowers bloom from June to August, attracting hoverflies and other beneficial insects—excellent for integrated pest management.

• Low-Maintenance and Deer-Resistant
  Thrives in hot, dry, sunny locations and poor soils. Deer and rabbits typically avoid rue due to its pungent aroma and bitter taste.

• Used in Folk Magic and Cultural Traditions
  Historically regarded as a protective herb, rue was planted near doorways, worn in amulets, or burned to ward off illness or ill intentions. It’s still valued in ceremonial and spiritual gardens.

Product Details

• Plant life cycle: Perennial

• Sun requirements: Full sun

• Soil requirements: Dry to medium, well-drained

• Mature height: 18–30 inches

• Spread: 12–24 inches

• Bloom time: June–August

• Bloom color: Yellow

• USDA Hardiness zones: 4–9

• Native range: Southern Europe, North Africa, Western Asia

Rue brings ancient tradition, pollinator support, and drought-resilient structure to modern gardens. A bold and storied herb for knowledgeable gardeners and herbalists.