Ruta graveolens * Rue

Ruta graveolens is native to Europe and has a long history of being used as a medicinal plant and an herb in a variety of local dishes. Rue is toxic to some folks and care should be taken when using this herb medicinally or herbally. Ruta graveolens is in the Citrus family and has striking yellow flowers. The foliage of Rue is very fragrant and it has been used as a nosegay to block foul smells. Ruta graveolens grow to 3-4 feet and will bloom in sun or sparsely in shade. The grey leaves and yellow flowers are a nice addition to the grey garden and plants bloom from late Spring into Fall. Ruta graveolens is not favored by the deer and rabbits until there isn't much left in the garden. Ruta graveolens is a larval food for the Giant Swallowtail