Type of Flower
Ruta Graveolens:
Ruta graveolens commonly known as rue, common rue or herb-of-grace — is a species of Ruta grown as a herb. It is native to the Balkan Peninsula. It is now grown throughout the world as an ornamental plant in gardens, especially because of its bluish leaves, and also sometimes for its tolerance of hot and dry soil conditions. It also is cultivated as a medicinal herb, as a condiment, and to a lesser extent as an insect repellent.
Blooms appear in these approximate colours: Yellow and Painter yellow. The blooms display an average of 4 petals. Leaves appear approximately as a Teal green and Celadon Green colour. It is a flowering edible herb that typically grows as a semi-evergreen, which is defined as a plant that is evergreen in mild areas but otherwise deciduous. Common rue is known for growing to a height of approximately 1.46 feet (that's 45.0 cm in metric) with a forb habit. This plant tends to bloom in late spring. This plant is a great attractor for butterflies, so if you are looking to attract wildlife Common rue is a great choice.
Surface sow seed (needs light to germinate) in peaty soil at 68°F (20°C) to germinate in 7-28 days. Transplant to full sun and fertile soil that is not too wet (keep well watered until it is established). This plant enjoys rocky soil. Try to plant in a location that enjoys partial sun / full sun and remember to water moderately. Use Zone 6 - Zone 11 as your guideline for the appropriate climate for this plant. Ensure your soil is peat-rich and has a ph of between 6.6 and 8.5 as Common rue is a weakly acidic soil - weakly alkaline soil loving plant. Keep in mind when planting that Common rue is thought of as very hardy, so this plant will tend to survive through freezing conditions.
Rue was thought to protect against plague, and since people also rubbed their floors with fresh rue to repel fleas, it probably actually did protect them. Like other bitters (wormwood, for instance), rue has been used to get rid of worms. The rutin in rue is antispasmodic and thus good for intestinal cramps and coughs. However, an excess of rue causes vomiting, can interefere with the liver, and can even be fatal; don’t use during pregnancy. Fresh leaves can cause dermatitis in senstive people, especially on hot sunny days when the essential oil is strongest. It can also interact negatively with blood thinning agents.
References: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruta_graveolens
http://myfolia.com/plants/1324-common-rue-ruta-graveolens
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