Common rue (Ruta graveolens)
Common rue, Ruta graveolens, is a small aromatic subshrub in the citrus family, Rutaceae. Native to the Balkan Peninsula, it has a long history in European gardens. Its rounded outline, blue green leaves and strong smell distinguish it from soft leaved kitchen herbs. Young shoots are herbaceous, while the base becomes woody with age. A developed plant may occupy roughly half a metre to a metre in height and width, depending on its growing conditions.The leaves are deeply divided into small rounded or elongated segments. Their finely cut outline gives a light, almost fernlike texture, while the cool colour remains particularly distinctive. Small glands contribute to their aromatic character. Foliage can remain evergreen where winters are mild; in a colder garden its appearance and persistence change with the season. Rue therefore offers a foliage presence and a lasting framework rather than the brief cycle of an annual herb.In summer, groups…
