Rue Seeds (Ruta graveolens) | Herb of Grace

Add distinctive blue-green texture to a sunny ornamental garden with rue, Ruta graveolens, also known as Herb of Grace. Its deeply lobed foliage and yellow summer flowers create an attractive contrast in borders, herb gardens and formal knot-garden designs. Grow it for its appearance rather than as an edible or medicinal crop.

Important Handling & Safety Note

Rue can be toxic if ingested. Do not consume seeds or plants or use them for home remedies. Plant sap and oils can cause skin irritation and a serious skin reaction after sunlight exposure. Wear gloves and protective clothing when handling or pruning, avoid skin contact, and keep plants away from children and pets.

Plant Highlights

• Botanical name: Ruta graveolens.
• Common name: Rue or Herb of Grace.
• Plant type: Perennial herb grown here for ornamental use.
• Foliage: Deeply lobed, blue-green leaves.
• Flowers: Yellow blooms in summer.
• Listed height: Approximately 18–24 inches; size varies with growing conditions.
• Garden uses: Sunny ornamental borders and knot gardens.

Starting Rue from Seed

1. Sow outdoors when frost danger has passed and soil has warmed to approximately 65°F or above.
2. Surface sow on prepared soil or seed-starting mix, pressing gently into place without deeply burying seeds.
3. Keep the growing medium consistently moist, but not saturated, until seedlings emerge.
4. Be patient: germination can be erratic, and timing varies with conditions.
5. Allow seedlings room to develop and maintain airflow around plants.

Growing & Care

• Choose full sun and well-drained soil. Sandy or lean soil is suitable; avoid waterlogged sites.
• Water regularly during establishment, then adjust watering to rainfall and soil moisture.
• Established plants tolerate drier conditions.
• Remove spent flower heads if you want to limit self-seeding.
• Use gloves and protective clothing for pruning and cleanup. Keep discarded foliage out of reach of children and pets.

Seed Packet Options

Choose 50, 200, 1,000 or 5,000 seeds from the available options. This listing is for planting seeds, not live plants. Options select seed quantity.