Galega officinalis
common goat's rue
A strong-growing, bushy perennial forming a clump of stems with attractive pinnate leaves and pea-like, white, lilac or purple flowers borne in erect racemes from mid summer to early autumn
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Purple White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Purple White | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Galega are robust bushy perennials with pinnate leaves and axillary racemes of pea-like flowers in summer and autumn
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- C & S Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Easy to grow in almost any garden soil but may spread rapidly in fertile soil and will need staking; prefers an open sunny position but will tolerate light shade
Propagation
Propagate by seed, soaked in warm water overnight, in containers in a cold frame in spring or by division in spring or late autumn
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut back flowered stems to prevent self-seeding
Pests
Pea and bean weevil and aphids may be troublesome
Diseases
May be affected by powdery mildews
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