How to Grow and Care for Rues

Rue has an extensive history with culinary uses and in literature. It is referenced in multiple historic literary works, including the bible, the writings of William Shakespeare, Milton, and others. It is most often used as a symbol or noted for its fragrance in these literary works. Rue can be used in cooking, however, due to its bitter taste, it is not commonly used.

Essential oils extracted from the leaves of the fringed rue (Ruta chalepensis) have long been used in perfumes and as a bitter seasoning and condiment throughout Europe and the Mediterranean. However, many modern medical experts warn it is unsafe for consumption. The perennial, which produces fringed yellow flowers, is popular in herb gardens and is a deterrent to cats and dogs.

Perennial plant, woody base 25 to 75 cm high, with stems erect, glabrous below. Leaves alternate, bi or trifoliate, with lanceolate leaflets up to 3.5 mm wide. Loose inflorescences, panicle, glandular with lanceolate sporophyls. Normally 4 sepals and 4 free petals, the central flowers also pentafoliadas.

Plant strongly aromatic, somewhat bluish, hairless, somewhat woody below, 25 to 70 cm, with leaves deeply divided two or three times, forming elongated and very thin segments. The flowers are spring, yellow, slightly open, less than 1 cm, grouped densely at the end of the branches, with 4 petals with a slightly wavy edge at the tip.

Common rue 'Jackman's Blue' is a popular herb known for its distinct, bluish-silver foliage. Its lemon-scented leaves are commonly used in cosmetics, perfumes, and traditional medicine. But beware, the plant is toxic when ingested and can cause serious skin irritation upon contact.