Rue(Ruta graveolens) Perennial Zone 5-9. This perennial herb is very attractive in any type of garden. It's bright yellow flowers are contrasted nicely by the bluish foliage. This small woody shrub gives interest in the garden because it is so different from other colors of green leaves. Rue is an evil smelling herb that is said to be very bitter. Sprigs of this were carried by the judge and court people to repel the fleas the prisoners brought into court. One word of caution, some people get a nasty rash from handling this plant, mostly if they are pruning it or somehow cause juice to get on their skin. I've seen references that state that it is a simple dermatitis and others that say that it causes hypersensitivity to the sun and causes nasty sun burn type blisters. I've never had a problem with it. If you have sensitive skin, you might want to wear long sleeves and gloves when pruning this plant. This plant needs well drained soil, full sun, and can withstand some drought after it gets established. I've never had it grow more than 3' and it can be kept in bounds by pruning.
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