Growing Non-GMO Rue Flower Seeds

When the outdoor temperatures are consistently around 70 F, plant the rue seeds directly into the garden bed. Press the seeds into the soil and lightly cover them. Plant 2-3 seeds per hole or broadcast sow. Keep the soil moist but not soggy until germination. When the seedlings have developed true leaves and are about 4 inches tall, thin them out to be approximately 18 inches apart. Once the plants are established, they rarely need supplemental water except during extended periods without water.

During the summer, prune back the plant periodically to be the size you desire and remove any declining foliage or branches; this will encourage the plant to branch more and be a bit denser. Each fall, mulch the plants to protect them from the winter temperatures. Cut back the plant each spring to allow for fresh, new growth. Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring once new growth is spotted.

Rue in the Flower Garden

Rue is perfect for gardens that are hot, dry, rocky, or otherwise undesirable. It's delightful blue/gray evergreen foliage is welcome in the garden year around. They will grow readily in many soils that other plants will not. For this reason, they can make great additions to xeriscape gardens as mass plantings.

Landscape Use of Rue

They are most commonly planted in large groups in the arid regions of the west. Their evergreen foliage adds off-season interest. They are also great for planting near a vegetable garden because they deter garden pests and encourage beneficial insects. Wherever you plant them, be sure that they will not be nearby children playing or any human or pet that may each random plants.

About Rue Garden Seeds

This herb is also said to be used as an insect repellent in case you want to repel insects from some other crops. You can also harvest the leaves and dry them to use as insect repellent inside your home. The leaves and sap can cause rashes on the skin, so wear protective clothes and clothes while handling this plant.

Expect 2-4 inch wide flower clusters reaching up to three feet above the ground.

Rue is in the same family as orange trees and kumquats! The family Rutaceae is known for its distinct 4 or 5 petaled flowers and strong aromas.

Although rue can reseed itself, it is not typically invasive. It can easily be controlled by removing the flowerheads before the seeds develop. Check with your local extension office if you have questions about growing in your specific location.

The name, Rue is thought to have come from the verb ‘to rue’ because people regret eating the plant due to its bitter taste. For this reason, Rue has become a symbol of regret.

Rue can also be known as common rue, garden rue, german rue, or herb-of-grace. It is native to the Balkan Peninsula and is now popular in dry gardens throughout the world.

Rue plants are considered toxic to humans and animals. Be sure to plant these where they can be admired but not interacted with easily.

The structure of the rue flower is incredibly distinct. They look like little yellow capsules until they open up and reveal 4 -5 cupped petals and even more stamens that extend outward. Once you know it, you can’t forget it!

Stories From Our Gardeners

"Rue has long been used for a plethora of purposes but only a few of them have been proven to be effective. Do your research and wear gloves!"

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Rue Seeds Per Package:

• 250 mg packet - Approximately 50 Seeds
• .25 oz - Approximately 1,400 Seeds
• 1 oz - Approximately 5,600 Seeds

Non-GMO Rue seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.