Common Rue

Ruta graveolens

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Rutaceae
Genus:
Ruta
Species:
Ruta graveolens

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb , Subshrub
Height:
3-4 ft
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
jun, aug
Bloom Colors:
blue, green, yellow

Native Range

United States: Alabama, California, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Illinois, Maryland, Missouri, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Virginia, Vermont, Wisconsin, West Virginia, Canada: Alberta, Ontario, Quebec

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Anise Swallowtail (Papilio zelicaon), Black Swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes), Giant Swallowtail (Papilio cresphontes)

Reported Fauna Sightings

Butterflies:Eastern Giant Swallowtail (Heraclides cresphontes), Eastern Giant Swallowtail (Heraclides cresphontes)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
well-drained, rocky or sandy soil
pH:
6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to rocky, limestone-rich areas