About
An upright sub-shrub with blue-green, aromatic, multi-lobed leaves and clusters of small, dark yellow, cup-shaped flowers with fringed petals in summer.
About the genus
Ruta can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs or woody-based perennials with aromatic, pinnately lobed leaves and yellow flowers with 4 or 5 fringed petals in terminal clusters
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, East-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Shrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants
Native toS Europe, Arabia, Somalia
FragranceFoliage
ToxicityTOXIC to skin with sunlight. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling TOXIC to pets skin with sunlight (dogs) - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil, in full sun or partial shade. Will thrive in a hot dry site
PruningPruning group 10 in spring or after flowering
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free