Care of the plant Ruta graveolens or Common rue |
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The genus Ruta, family Rutaceae, comprises up to 40 species of aromatic subshrub plants native to the Mediterranean region, Asia, Azores, the Canary Islands, Cape Verde and Madeira. Some species are: Ruta graveolens, Ruta chalepensis, Ruta montana, Ruta angustifolia. Common names: Common rue, Rue, Herb-of-grace. They are very aromatic subshrubs that reach 1.5 meters (4.92 feet) in height. The leaves are bluish-green in color and strongly divided into leaflets. The yellow flowers appear in terminal corymbs and have wavy petals. They bloom from mid spring to late summer. They are used as isolated specimens or in small groups, in aromatic gardens and in pots for patios and terraces. They have many medicinal properties but it's important to note that it is a toxic plant by ingestion and can also cause allergic reactions if the plant is handled. Ruta graveolens grow in full sun or semi-shade exposures. They resist frost down to -15 ºC (5 ºF). The soil must be well drained: they grow on stony, siliceous or calcareous soils. Water regularly (about 2 times a week) but with little amount of water. Fertilize once a month in spring and summer with mineral fertilizer. They can be pruned every 2 years in early spring to keep them compact. They are wild Mediterranean plants very resistant to pests and diseases. They are propagated from seeds sown in early spring. |
Images of the plant Ruta graveolens or Common rue |
 Ruta chalepensis  Ruta graveolens  Ruta graveolens  Ruta graveolens |