Ruta graveolens – A bold and historic herb, Rue is a hardy perennial shrub known for its blue-green, finely divided foliage and clusters of small, sunshine-yellow flowers that bloom in summer. Long treasured in traditional herbal gardens, Rue is equally valued today for its ornamental structure and pollinator support. Once established, this drought-tolerant plant forms a compact, mounding shape that adds striking texture and contrast to borders and Mediterranean-style plantings. It also serves as a preferred host plant for several swallowtail butterflies.

Plant 18–24 inches apart.

Tip: Rue makes a beautiful low hedge or structured border plant thanks to its tidy, mounding growth habit. Its cool-toned foliage pairs especially well with lavender, sage, and other sun-loving herbs in a drought-tolerant garden. Wear gloves when handling, as the sap can cause skin sensitivity in some individuals.