Ruta graveolens

RHS Plant Profile
common rue

Other common names

ave grace, countryman's treacle, herb grace, herb impia, herb of repentance, ruth, serving man's joy, bitter herb, herb of grace

Synonyms

Ruta divaricata

Shrubs

A bushy evergreen shrub to a height of 1m, with aromatic, broad, blue-grey leaves pinnately divided into rounded segments, and clusters of 4-petalled yellow flowers 2cm across, in summer

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Neutral or Alkaline

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Exposed
Hardiness
H5
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Foliage
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Rutaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
TOXIC to skin with sunlight. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling TOXIC to pets skin with sunlight (dogs) - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus
Ruta can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs or woody-based perennials with aromatic, pinnately lobed leaves and yellow flowers with 4 or 5 fringed petals in terminal clusters
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil, in full sun or partial shade. Will thrive in a hot dry site

Propagation

Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Patio and container plants
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Wall side borders

Pruning

Pruning group 10 in spring or after flowering

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally-disease free