Galega officinalis (common goat's rue) — Perennial herb

Overview

Galega officinalis is a perennial herb in the genus Galega, part of the Q44448 family. It typically grows around 1.2 m tall. Galega officinalis grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to C & S Europe.

About

Galega officinalis is a perennial herb reaching about 1.2 m that produces summer flowers from June to August. It originates from central and southern Europe and belongs to the genus Galega. The plant favours full sun and tolerates a range of soil textures provided they remain moist but well-drained. It is toxic to livestock, so avoid areas used for grazing.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Galega officinalis

About the genus

Galega, goat's rue, is a genus of flowering plants in the legume family, Fabaceae, native to central and southern Europe, western Asia and tropical east Africa. They are tall, bushy, herbaceous perennials with erect racemes of pea-like flowers in shades of white, pink, blue or mauve. Their preferred habitats are sunny damp meadows or slopes.

Wikipedia contributors, "Galega", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Galega

In the garden

Galega officinalis is a herbaceous perennial from central and southern Europe that typically grows to around 1.2 m and flowers in the summer months from June to August. It sits within the genus Galega and shows the stature of a tall herbaceous plant, making its flowering period the most noticeable phase of the season. Position it in full sun and provide soil that stays moist but drains freely; the species tolerates sandy, loamy and clay soils so long as water does not sit around the roots. It is rated fully hardy (H7) in UK terms and also corresponds to USDA hardiness zones 4–8, so it will withstand severe winter conditions in most of the British Isles. Use the plant towards the rear of a mixed herbaceous border or in an open, sunny margin where its 1.2 m height will not shade smaller neighbours. Because it is toxic to livestock, do not plant it where sheep, cattle or other grazing animals have access. The combination of summer flowering and tall growth makes it a practical choice where a vertical herbaceous element is required and stock exclusion is already in place.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Galega

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Galega officinalis size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial herb
Height: 1.2 m
Native to: C & S Europe
Toxicity: Toxic to livestock

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Galega officinalis?

Galega officinalis prefers full sun.

What soil does Galega officinalis need?

Galega officinalis is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How big does Galega officinalis grow?

Galega officinalis reaches a height of 1.2 m.

Is Galega officinalis hardy in the UK?

Galega officinalis has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

Is Galega officinalis toxic?

Toxic to livestock.

More in the Galega genus

Browse all Galega →