Rue, known as the "Herb of Grace", is a native of the Mediterranean region. It is a wonderful ornamental plant for herb gardening. Rue has a nice mounding habit and small, very pungent evergreen leaves. Tiny yellow flowers grow above the attractive foliage. Rue will work nicely in an herb garden as well as a rock garden.
The herb's strong aromatic qualities make a great deterrent to most garden pests including deer, rabbits and slugs and its beautiful yellow flowers are a magnet for butterflies - it's even a host plant for Swallowtails! Rue is drought resistant and acts as an insect repellent, so it makes a great garden companion.
If you have sensitive skin be wary of planting Rue near walkways or where you may come into contact easily with it. In some cases people have developed blisters and welts from brushing against or handling fresh Rue, as the combination of essential oils and UV rays can cause Photodermititis.