1 named cultivar
The Story
Plant Bio
Ruta graveolens, commonly known as rue, is a woody-based, evergreen sub-shrub or perennial herb. It is prized for its aromatic, pinnately compound, blue-green foliage and clusters of small, dull yellow flowers in summer.
The sap can cause severe skin irritation (phytophotodermatitis) when contacted and exposed to sunlight. All parts are toxic if ingested. It is noted for repelling insects and is a food source for the larvae of some swallowtail butterflies.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
30 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low
Humidity
Low to Average
Lifespan
Short-lived perennial/sub-shrub
Native To
Balkan Peninsula, Southeastern Europe
Toxicity
Sap causes severe skin irritation; toxic if ingested.
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds in well-draining soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil slightly moist, especially during dry spells.
- Mist cuttings lightly to encourage root development.
- Place in full sun for optimal growth and aromatic foliage.
- Thin out overcrowded plants after seedlings establish, around 6 weeks.
- Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water moderately, avoiding waterlogging 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape ✂️
- Fertilize with a balanced, organic fertilizer in spring
- Monitor regularly for pests and diseases
Don't
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall or winter
- Refrain from using chemical pesticides without organic options
- Don’t plant in heavy clay soils without amendment
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Rue questions
What zones can Rue grow in?
Rue is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Rue deer resistant?
Yes — Rue is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Rue bloom?
Rue typically blooms in summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Rue need full sun?
Rue does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Rue drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Rue handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Ruta to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Rue with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.