Ruta graveolens Rutaceae

CULTIVATION A hardy, evergreen perennial, rue has small, aromatic, blue-green leaves and yellowy-green, daisy-like flowers from midsummer. It grows to a height of 30-60cm (1-2ft) and prefers poorish, dry soil and a sheltered site in full sun. Propagate it by sowing seeds in spring or by dividing the plant or taking stem cuttings in late summer. Harvest the leaves all year round and the flowers from midsummer. A pretty garden, border, edging and container herb. Recommended varieties R.g. ‘Jackman’s Blue’; R.g. ‘Variegata’.