Characteristics:
Handsome
blue-tinted leaves held in clusters, plus bright yellow flowers in summer.
It reaches about 2 feet high. Growing
Information:
Rue
needs well-drained soil and full sun, although it can survive in light shade.
Space plants 18 inches apart. In spring, cut back older stems to encourage
new growth. Cultivars:
'Jackman's
Blue' produces no flowers; 'Variegata' has cream or white variegations. Propagation:
You
can make more rue plants by dividing the plants in spring, taking root cuttings,
or starting seeds indoors about 10 weeks before the last spring frost. Possible
Problems:
Provide
well-drained soil to prevent root rot. Harvesting
and Using:
Rue,
once used medicinally, now is primarily a garden ornamental. Avoid touching
the leaves, as they make some people break out in a rash. |