Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Eastern North America
Toxicity
Roots are toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Tephrosia virginiana, commonly known as Goat's Rue, is a perennial with delicate, fern-like foliage and clusters of small, bicolored, pea-like flowers (pink and pale yellow) that attract pollinators and add a soft, airy texture to native landscapes. This species is notable for its drought tolerance, nitrogen-fixing ability, and its role in enhancing soil fertility, making it a valuable plant for sustainable and low-maintenance gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring
- Mist cuttings or sow directly into the ground
- Water regularly until established, then drought tolerant
- Provide full sun for optimal flowering
- Mulch around base to conserve moisture
- Prune lightly after flowering to shape
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water sparingly once established 💧
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape ✂️
- Mulch to retain soil moisture 🌱
Don't
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
- Plant in shade 🌳
- Use heavy clay soil ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
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
Goat's Rue questions
What zones can Goat's Rue grow in?
Goat's 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 Goat's Rue deer resistant?
Yes — Goat's Rue is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Goat's Rue bloom?
Goat's Rue typically blooms in late spring to early summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Goat's Rue need full sun?
Goat's Rue does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Goat's Rue drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Goat's Rue handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Grow Goat's 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.
