Galega officinalis 'Candida' (Goat's-rue) — Perennial herb

Overview

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

About

Galega officinalis 'Candida' is a perennial herb growing to about 1.2 m and flowering in June to August. It favours a sunny aspect and performs best in moist but well-drained soils. Plants will tolerate sandy, loamy or clay textures. The species is toxic to livestock and should not be sited where animals can graze.

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 'Candida' is a herbaceous perennial native to northern Africa, western Asia and Europe, reaching roughly 1.2 m at maturity and flowering from June to August. In the UK it is fully hardy (H7), so established plants withstand normal winter conditions across most areas. Place it in full sun on soils described as sandy, loamy or clay, keeping the soil moist but well drained; it does not suit persistently waterlogged or very dry positions. Given its hardiness (USDA zones 4–8), it tolerates a wide range of climates but appreciates a sunny, open aspect for reliable summer flowering. In a British garden the height makes it useful towards the rear of a perennial border or among taller meadow plantings where summer blooms are wanted. Bearing in mind its toxicity, avoid planting near grazing stock or in paddocks and ensure seedheads or spread plants cannot be accessed by livestock. Keep it well away from grazing animals.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Galega

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

Plant details

Galega officinalis 'Candida' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial herb
Height: 1.2 m
Native to: Northern Africa, Western Asia, Europe
Toxicity: Toxic to livestock

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Galega officinalis 'Candida'

Propagation: Seed, division

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Galega officinalis 'Candida'?

Galega officinalis 'Candida' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.

What soil does Galega officinalis 'Candida' need?

Galega officinalis 'Candida' 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 'Candida' grow?

Galega officinalis 'Candida' reaches a height of 1.2 m.

Is Galega officinalis 'Candida' hardy in the UK?

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

How do I propagate Galega officinalis 'Candida'?

Seed, division.

Is Galega officinalis 'Candida' toxic?

Toxic to livestock.

More in the Galega genus

Browse all Galega →