Rue

The Herb of Grace. Traditionally holy water was sprinkled during Mass with a brush made of Rue.

Aromatic shrub with attractive blue-green foliage and a pungent aroma. Good for short hedges or borders due to upright, bushy habit.

It is an effective fly repellent. Dogs and cats hate it, so if neighbourhood pets are a problem, plant rue to deter them.

Since medieval times, rue was used as an additive to wines to enhance its flavour and keeping properties. Rue’s toxicity has been long known but since it appears to be slight, use continued.

Caution should be taken with using rue topically. Applied to the skin with sun exposure, the oil and leaves can cause blistering. Some people are more sensitive than others.

Prune plants back each spring and apply lime.