Description
- Grow Rue herbs from freshly harvested Ruta graveolens herb seeds. Rue plants are grown as an ornamental, as well as a medicinal herb. The plants will grow anywhere between 18 to 24 inches tall, producing blue-green leaves, with small yellow flowers.
- The branches can be trimmed to resemble a bush. Having said that, Rue can be an attractive addition to flower gardens as well. You can add them in raised beds, flower beds and in pots & containers as well. When pruning and deadheading, it is recommended to wear gardening gloves, as Rue will secrete an oil that may irritate the skin.
- Rue herbs are categorized as a perennial plant. They establish a deep root system the first year of growth, while the plant life on the surface wilts with frost. Rue plants will then reemerge and regrow in the Spring. Rue herbs were often used to rid the body of worms, much like Wormwood. It is also used to relieve intestinal cramping as well. As a culinary herb, fresh Rue leaves are added in some dishes to flavor meats, cheese, and eggs.
- Rue herbs can be started indoors, or directly outdoors as well. If started indoors, we recommend using peat pots as your starter pots. Sow 2 to 3 seeds per pots, 6 to 8 weeks prior to the last frost. The seeds will require direct sunlight to germinate successfully, so having said that, do not bury the seeds with topsoil. Instead lightly press the seeds into place. Transplant into the garden, or direct sow when the weather is warm and all danger of frost has passed.
- Rue herbs thrive in an area that receives full sunlight for the majority of the day, with daytime temperatures at around 70F. Provide Rue with a poor, sandy soil that is also well draining. To improve drainage, we always recommend adding a light compost to any areas containing hard, compact soil. Water daily until plants are established, slowly reducing the moisture provided. Rue plants are somewhat drought tolerant.
Rue seeds tend to germinate within roughly 7 to 14 days after sowing. The plants can grow to a mature height of anywhere between 18 to 24 inches tall and can be spaced about 16 to 18 inches apart from one another. Rue herbs are grown as a medicinal herb, but can also act as a lovely ornamental as well. The plants produce attractive, blue-green leaves with small yellow flowers.
