How to grow rue
Overview
Rue (Ruta graveolens) is a hardy, evergreen shrub grown for its aromatic blue-green foliage and small yellow flowers. It thrives in poor, dry soils and full sun, making it an ideal gap-filler for low-maintenance garden beds.
Soil Preparation
Rue prefers well-drained, poor to moderately fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5. Add coarse sand or gravel if soil is heavy clay. No rich compost needed; it thrives in lean conditions.
Growing Guide
Plant rue in full sun with well-drained soil; it tolerates poor, sandy or gravelly conditions. Space plants 30–45 cm apart. Sow seed directly in autumn or spring, or transplant seedlings after frost. Avoid overwatering—rue prefers dry conditions once established. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.
Sowing
Sow seed 3–5 mm deep in seed-raising mix, spacing 30 cm apart. Germination takes 14–21 days at 15–20°C. Direct sow in autumn or spring; transplant when seedlings are 10 cm tall.
Care
Feed lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser. Prune after flowering to remove dead or woody stems and encourage new growth. Avoid overwatering—rue prefers dry conditions once established.
Companion Planting
Rue pairs well with lavender, rosemary, and sage in dry sunny beds. It is said to deter aphids and beetles from nearby plants, but avoid planting near basil or cabbage as it may inhibit their growth.
Common Pests & Risks
Rue is generally pest-free, but may occasionally suffer from aphids or whitefly in humid conditions. Control with a strong spray of water or insecticidal soap; avoid overwatering to reduce risk.
Harvesting
Harvest not usually relevant for food gardens.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves: overwatering or poor drainage—reduce water and improve soil drainage. Brown leaf edges: wind or salt burn—protect from strong coastal winds. Leggy growth: too much shade—move to full sun. Stunted growth: heavy clay soil—add sand or gravel. No flowers: excess nitrogen—reduce fertiliser.