Ruta graveolens (any variety) (Rue (any variety))

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in a full sun or partial shade. Best in a hot, dry position. Deer resistant. A host plant for Black swallowtail, Anise swallowtail, and Giant swallowtail butterflies.

Suggested uses

Coastal, Beds and borders, Mediterranean, Cottage/Informal, City, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Wildlife, Wallside and trellises

UK hardiness

H5

USDA zones

Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8

Sunset zone

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 2, 3

WUCOLS

North-Central Coastal = Moderate/Medium
Central Valley = Moderate/Medium
South Coastal = Low
South Inland = Moderate/Medium
High and Intermediate Desert = Unknown
Low Desert = Unknown

Foliage

Evergreen

Habit

Upright, Cushion or Mound Forming, Rounded

Native to

Garden origin

Drought tolerant

Yes

Flood tolerant

No

Fragrance

Foliage has a citrus-like fragrance.

Toxicity

Foliage causes severe skin irritation. Dangerous to ingest if pregnant.