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Rue

Ruta Graveolens

Rue (Ruta graveolens) is an evergreen, cold-hardy perennial known for its lacy blue-green foliage and small yellow summer flowers. A host plant for Swallowtail butterflies, it is heat and drought-tolerant, thriving in dry, sunny areas. Growing 1-3 feet tall, it’s ideal for hedges and borders. Rue naturally repels insects and cats but can cause skin irritation if handled. Its unique foliage is also used in crafts and dried floral arrangements, adding beauty to gardens.

$3.95

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Plant Data
Growing Instructions
Plant Data
Zones:  4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Growth Cycle:  Perennial, Self Seeding Perennial
Light:  Full Sun, Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs:  Low, Low to Moderate, Moderate
Color: 
Soil:  Tolerant of most soils, Chalky, Peaty, Sandy, Loam, Silty, Clay
Growth Rate:  Moderate
Maturity - (Vegetables Only): 
Edible:  Yes, with caution.
Height:  Up to 2 Feet
Evergreen:  Yes in the South - No in the North
Special Features:  Cold Hardy,Self Seeding,Deer Resistant, Disease Resistant, Arts and Crafts Basket Weaving, Dried Flowers, Attracts Pollinators, Flowering, Fragrant, Container Growing, Drought Tolerant, Medicinal
Warnings:  Can cause allergic reaction
Growing Instructions
How to Germinate Rue

How to Germinate Rue (Ruta graveolens)

  • Sow rue seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date or directly outdoors in early spring.
  • Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in well-draining soil. Press lightly to ensure good contact between the seeds and soil.
  • Maintain a soil temperature of 65-75°F (18-24°C) for optimal germination, which typically takes 10-14 days.
  • Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the germination period.
  • Once seedlings have developed several sets of true leaves, transplant them into the garden, spacing them 18-24 inches apart.

Additional Tips

  • Rue thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining, sandy, or rocky soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
  • Water sparingly once established, as rue is drought-tolerant and prefers slightly dry soil conditions.
  • Apply mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture and prevent weed growth.
  • Prune rue regularly to promote bushier growth and to maintain a compact size.
  • Use caution when handling rue, as it can cause skin irritation in some individuals. Wearing gloves is recommended during pruning and harvesting.
Rue

Rue

$3.95