The Rue Plant, also known as Ruda, is a perennial herb with a long history of use in traditional gardens. It is recognized for its finely divided, blue-green foliage and strong aromatic qualities.
Color and Appearance
Foliage is a distinctive blue-green to grey-green color with a smooth, slightly waxy texture. Leaves are small and finely divided, creating a feathery, textured appearance. In warm conditions, small yellow flower clusters may appear.
Size Information
This plant ships in a 4-inch nursery pot and typically arrives at 8 to 12 inches tall. At maturity, it reaches 2 to 3 feet in height with a spread of 1 to 2 feet. The plant develops a bushy, somewhat woody form over time and can spread through self-seeding if not controlled.
Plant Category
This is a perennial herb in the Rutaceae family. It is suited for outdoor garden beds, herb gardens, and large containers. Rue is an ornamental plant with significant historical and cultural heritage.
Target Audience
Best for intermediate to experienced gardeners who appreciate heritage herbs. Well-suited for herb garden enthusiasts, traditional gardeners, and those interested in historically significant plants. Requires some care with handling due to potential skin sensitivity.
Light Requirements
Full sun to partial sun is recommended. This plant thrives in open, sunny locations and can tolerate hot, dry conditions.
Watering
Rue is drought-tolerant once established and prefers infrequent, deep watering. This plant does well in poor to average soil conditions.
Soil and Temperature
Well-drained soil is important. Rue tolerates a range of soil types, including sandy and rocky conditions. It is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 10.
Care Notes
Prune lightly to maintain shape. Note that the sap can cause skin irritation in some individuals. Wear gloves when handling or pruning. This plant attracts pollinators when in bloom and is generally avoided by deer.
Age Range
Adult
Pet & Human Safety Warning: Rue is toxic to cats, dogs, and humans. In pets, ingestion can cause vomiting, excessive salivation, and liver damage. In humans, contact with the sap followed by sun exposure may cause severe skin burns and blistering (phototoxicity). Ingestion by humans can cause serious gastrointestinal distress and liver injury. Keep away from pets and children. Wear gloves when handling. If ingestion or significant skin exposure occurs, seek medical or veterinary attention immediately.
Live plants are natural organisms. Slight variations in size, color, shape, and growth pattern are normal and do not constitute a defect. We recommend inspecting your plant within 48 hours of delivery and reporting any issues promptly. We are not responsible for plant decline or death resulting from improper care, environmental conditions, or factors outside our control after delivery. Please review our Return & Refund Policy for eligibility details.
