Rue 50+ Seeds (Ruta graveolens) – Organic Perennial Herb – Unique Fragrant Leaves for Gardens & Traditional Herbal Remedies

Minimum: 50+ seeds

Discover the charm and versatility of Rue (Ruta graveolens), an ancient perennial herb renowned for its distinctive blue-green foliage, unique fragrance, and historic uses in herbal remedies and garden aesthetics. This drought-tolerant, deer-resistant herb adds a touch of texture and elegance to garden beds, herb gardens, and borders. Rue is celebrated for its ornamental appeal as well as its traditional role in herbal practices, making it an excellent addition for gardeners, herbalists, and nature lovers alike.

Key Features:

• Distinctive Blue-Green Foliage: Unique, finely textured leaves that add a striking visual contrast to any garden.
• Perennial & Hardy: Reliable, long-lasting growth year after year in USDA zones 4–9.
• Fragrant Leaves: Emits a strong, pleasant aroma that is both soothing and repellent to pests.
• Drought-Tolerant: Thrives in dry, poor soils with minimal watering, perfect for low-maintenance gardens.
• Traditional Herbal Use: Valued historically for its various applications in herbal remedies.

Growing Tips:

1. Light Requirements: Prefers full sun for optimal growth and foliage development.
2. Soil Preferences: Grows best in well-draining, dry to medium soil. Tolerates poor, rocky soils.
3. Watering Needs: Minimal watering; allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
4. Spacing: Space plants 18–24 inches apart to ensure airflow and healthy growth.
5. Temperature Range: Hardy in zones 4–9, tolerating both cold and heat with ease.

Care and Maintenance:

• Low Watering Needs: Once established, Rue is drought-tolerant and thrives with little care.
• Pruning: Trim back in early spring to encourage new growth and maintain a compact shape.
• Pests & Diseases: Naturally resistant to deer, rabbits, and most common garden pests.
• Caution: Rue leaves may cause skin irritation in some individuals, so handle with care.
• Mulching: Apply light mulch around plants to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture.

Design Ideas:

• Herb Gardens: A classic addition to medicinal and ornamental herb gardens.
• Borders & Edging: Use Rue as a natural border for pathways and garden beds, offering soft texture and color contrast.
• Companion Planting: Grow alongside roses, lavender, and marigolds to deter pests and create a stunning visual display.
• Rock Gardens: Ideal for rock gardens or xeriscapes due to its tolerance of poor soils and drought conditions.
• Wildlife Gardens: Attract pollinators while repelling unwanted pests like deer and rabbits.

Traditional Herbal Use:

Rue has a long history of use in traditional herbal remedies, where it has been prized for its various applications:

• Natural Repellent: The aromatic leaves were often used to deter insects and pests.
• Symbolism: Rue has historical significance in many cultures, often associated with protection, cleansing, and healing.
• Herbal Applications: Used sparingly in teas, salves, and infusions, though care should be taken as Rue is potent.

Important Note: Rue is considered a medicinal herb but must be used with caution. Pregnant women and individuals with sensitive skin should avoid direct contact and consumption.

Planting Instructions:

1. Seed Preparation: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost date or sow directly outdoors after frost.
2. Planting Depth: Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep in prepared soil and keep moist until germination.
3. Germination Time: Expect seeds to germinate in 10–14 days under ideal conditions.
4. Transplanting: Once seedlings develop sturdy roots, transplant to their permanent location in full sun.
5. Watering: Water sparingly, ensuring soil is never overly saturated.

Why Choose Rue (Ruta graveolens)?

• Multi-Purpose Herb: Offers ornamental beauty, fragrant foliage, and traditional herbal value.
• Resilient & Low Maintenance: Thrives in challenging conditions with minimal care.
• Pest Deterrent: Naturally keeps deer, rabbits, and insects at bay.
• Perfect for Xeriscapes: A must-have for drought-tolerant, water-wise gardens.
• Timeless Appeal: Steeped in history and tradition, Rue brings both beauty and symbolism to your space.

Quick Reference:

• Type: Perennial Herb
• Height: 18–24 inches
• Spread: 18–24 inches
• Hardiness Zones: USDA 4–9
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer (yellow-green blooms)
• Sun: Full sun
• Water: Low; drought-tolerant
• Soil: Well-drained, poor to average soil

The Rue Plant (Ruta graveolens) is a stunning, fragrant, and resilient addition to any garden. Whether you’re creating an herb garden, xeriscape, or ornamental border, this perennial herb offers timeless beauty and practical benefits. Add Rue to your garden today and enjoy its unique charm, rich history, and low-maintenance nature!