Description
Rue (Ruta graveolens), known in Italian as Ruta Comune, is a hardy, aromatic Mediterranean shrub prized for its attractive blue-green foliage and distinctive strong fragrance. This evergreen perennial produces delicate yellow flowers during spring and summer, attracting bees and other beneficial pollinators.
Traditionally grown in Mediterranean gardens, Rue is valued for its ornamental appearance, aromatic foliage and historical uses. Its compact, bushy growth makes it an excellent choice for herb gardens, rock gardens, decorative borders and containers. Naturally adapted to Malta’s hot, dry climate, Rue is a low-maintenance addition to sunny outdoor spaces.
Important: Rue is toxic if ingested in significant quantities and should not be recommended for culinary or medicinal use. Its sap can also cause skin irritation and severe reactions when exposed to sunlight.
🌱 Growing Instructions
☀️ Sunlight: Prefers full sun, ideally 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Thrives in Malta’s sunny gardens, balconies and terraces.
💧 Watering: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Established plants are drought-tolerant and require little additional watering.
🌱 Soil: Plant in well-draining, sandy or rocky soil. Tolerates poor, limestone-rich and slightly alkaline soils.
🌡️ Temperature: Grows best between 15°C–30°C. Tolerates Malta’s hot summers and mild winters well.
📏 Spacing: Allow approximately 40–60 cm between plants for healthy, bushy growth and good air circulation.
🌾 Fertilizer: Requires minimal feeding. Apply a light organic fertilizer in spring if necessary.
✂️ Pruning: Trim lightly in late winter or early spring to encourage compact growth. Always wear gloves and protective clothing when handling the plant.
🌿 Local Growing Tips (Malta)
Best planting season: March to May or September to November, allowing roots to establish during milder weather.
Position: Sunny herb gardens, rock gardens, raised beds or containers with excellent drainage.
Companion plants: Rosemary, lavender, thyme and sage, which enjoy similar sunny, well-drained conditions.
Common issue: Overwatering can cause root rot. Rue sap can also cause skin irritation and photosensitivity, so wear gloves and avoid exposing affected skin to sunlight.
📦 Product Information
Variety: Ruta Comune (Common Rue)
Botanical Name: Ruta graveolens
Family: Rutaceae
Plant Type: Evergreen Perennial Aromatic Shrub
Growth Habit: Compact, Upright and Bushy
Mature Height: Approximately 50–100 cm
Flowering Season: Spring to Summer
Special Characteristics: Attractive blue-green foliage, distinctive aromatic scent, delicate yellow flowers, excellent drought tolerance and suitability for Mediterranean gardens.
⚠️ Plant Safety
Toxicity: Rue contains compounds that can be harmful if swallowed. It should not be consumed or used for homemade medicinal preparations.
Skin Irritation: Contact with plant sap followed by sunlight exposure can cause phytophotodermatitis, resulting in painful skin reactions or blistering.
Pet Safety: Keep away from cats, dogs and other pets that may chew plants.
Handling: Wear gloves when pruning or handling Rue, and wash exposed skin thoroughly after contact.
Important Information
Pictures shown may vary from actual product due to the live nature of the items. Some items may be out of stock for various reasons, we will issue a refund or offer alternatives should that be the case.
The price is per one plant.
