Rue Seeds, Herb O'Grace

Ruta graveolens

Also known as common rue, this herb is long loved for its medicinal properties, Rue shouldn't be discounted for also being a beautiful landscape plant. Compact, mounding plants with interesting leaves that look great as a border planting. Sweet yellow flowers are very attractive to pollinators of all kinds, and is a preferred host plant for Black Swallowtail, Anise Swallowtail, and Giant Swallowtail butterflies.

Caution! This plant can be toxic when taken internally, and can cause rashes by skin contact. Wear gloves and long sleeves while handling this plant. Always consult a definitive source on uses and dosing before using any medicinal herb.

Direct seed in early spring or transplant into the garden after all danger of frost has passed. It will need full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil but can tolerate a range of conditions. Water well to ensure good germination. Once germinated, rue can tolerate drought fairly well. Typically grown for leaves and flowers. Perennial.