Rue is a hardy, drought-tolerant evergreen perennial with finely cut blue-green leaves and clusters of small yellow flowers in summer. It is grown as an ornamental border plant, in herb gardens and as a companion plant. Handle with care: the sap can cause a painful skin reaction (blistering) when skin is exposed to sunlight, and the plant should not be eaten.
Growing guide for South Africa
- When to sow: spring (August to October) in trays, or direct in spring and autumn in mild areas.
- How to sow: the seed needs light, so scatter it on the surface of seedling mix and gently press it in without covering it.
- Germination: slow and uneven, 10 to 30 days at 20 to 22 degrees C.
- Spacing: transplant when seedlings have two sets of true leaves, 30 to 45 cm apart.
- Position: full sun and well-drained, even poor, soil. It dislikes wet feet. Height 60 to 90 cm.
- Care: water until established, then rarely. Trim lightly after flowering to keep it compact.
- Safety: always wear gloves and long sleeves when handling or pruning rue, wash skin afterwards, and keep away from children and pets. Not for consumption.
Quick facts: Packet: heirloom seed. Height 60 to 90 cm. Perennial. Sowing times are a guide: adjust for your local frost dates and climate.
Photo: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
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