Goat's-rue - Galega officinalis (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Goat's-rue

Also known as: Galega, Italian fitch

Galega officinalis, commonly referred to as goat's-rue, is a pale pink-flowered member of the pea family. This hardy, generalist species is originally from the Middle East, but it has spread across Eurasia and into New Zealand and North America. In the latter locations, goat's-rue is often considered a pesky invasive.

Scientific classification

Species

Goat's-rue (Galega officinalis)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

40 cm to 1 m

Plant Height

70 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

White, Pink, Purple

Flower Color

Images of Goat's-rue

Distribution of Goat's-rue

Distribution Map

Goat's-rue is native to regions in Europe, the Mediterranean, and portions of Asia and the Caucasus. In its native range, it thrives in a variety of habitats. The species has also been introduced to parts of both the Southern and Northern Hemispheres, extending from temperate to subtropical zones across different continents. Furthermore, goat's-rue has been cultivated beyond its natural distribution, adapting to new environments.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Scrub, Woods, Marshy fields, Roadsides

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Goat's-rue

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Goat's-rue thrives in moist, temperate regions and prefers consistent moisture, with watering every two weeks. As an herbaceous perennial, it benefits from regular watering during its active growing season for optimal foliage and flowering development.

Fertilize: Fertilize goat's-rue with balanced fertilizers during growth, switching to high-phosphorus types before flowering. Apply quarterly with slow-release granules in moist conditions, avoiding foliage contact to prevent burns. This regimen supports healthy goat's-rue growth, suitable for all gardening levels.

Pruning: Goat's-rue thrives with regular pruning, ideally in early to later spring, to enhance foliage and prevent legginess. This practice shapes the plant, removes dead stems, improves air circulation, and controls invasive growth, promoting overall health and vigor.

Propagation: Goat's-rue is a perennial herb valued for its medicinal properties and ornamental flowers. For propagation, divide the root clump in early spring or late autumn, ensuring each section has a growth bud. Proper root handling and well-draining soil under adequate sunlight foster rapid establishment.

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