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Ruta - Common Rue ( Ruta graveolens) Herb Of Grace Evergreen Ornamental Herb

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Ruta - Common Rue ( Ruta graveolens) Herb Of Grace Evergreen Ornamental Herb

Herb of Grace • Evergreen Ornamental Herb

Botanical Name: Ruta graveolens
Common Names: Common Rue, Herb of Grace
Plant Type: Evergreen Perennial Herb
Height: 60–90 cm (2–3 ft)
Spread: 45–60 cm (18–24 in)
Hardiness: Zones 4–9 (mulch heavily in colder climates)

Full sun

Common Rue is a striking ornamental herb prized for its attractive blue-green foliage, drought tolerance, and unique fragrance. Native to the Balkan Peninsula and long cultivated throughout the Mediterranean, rue makes an excellent addition to herb gardens, pollinator gardens, and dry landscapes. Its evergreen foliage provides season-long interest and thrives in hot, sunny locations where many other plants struggle.

Rue has a long history of medicinal use, but all parts of the plant may be toxic if ingested and may cause skin irritation or photosensitivity in some individuals. Wear gloves when handling plants.

Growing Requirements

  • Soil: Well-drained soil
  • Water Needs: Low to moderate once established
  • Drought Tolerance: Excellent
  • Deer Resistance: Generally deer resistant
  • Attracts: Beneficial insects and pollinators
  • Slow to germinate

Stratification Requirements

  • No stratification required.

Starting Seeds Indoors

  • Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last expected frost.
  • Surface sow seeds onto moist seed-starting mix.
  • Do not cover seeds, as light is required for germination.
  • Maintain a soil temperature of 20°C (68°F).
  • Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
  • Germination typically occurs in 1–4 weeks.
  • Provide bright light after germination.
  • Transplant outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and seedlings are several inches tall.

Direct Sowing Outdoors

  • Sow in spring after the danger of frost has passed.
  • Plant seeds 6–12 seeds per foot.
  • Sow 6–10 mm (¼–⅜ in) deep.
  • Space rows 45 cm (18 in) apart.
  • Thin seedlings to a final spacing of 30–60 cm (12–24 in) apart.
  • Keep the area weed-free until plants are well established.

Care Instructions

  • Water regularly during establishment.
  • Once mature, plants tolerate heat and drought exceptionally well.
  • Avoid poorly drained soils.
  • Prune lightly in spring to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth.
  • Apply winter mulch in colder regions for added protection.

Seed Count: 15 

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