Egyptian Rue, Fringed rue
Ruta chalepensis

Family: Rutaceae

What it is like

Ruta chalepensis is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from June to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Height (m): 0.8

Where it is found

Rocky places, woods, dry banks and thickets, usually on limestone.

Europe - Mediterranean.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

The leaves are used as a condiment.

Condiment: the various plants that are used as flavourings, either as herbs, spices or condiments.

Medicine

Rating: 1

The plant is abortifacient, anthelmintic, emmenagogue and ophthalmic. A decoction of the plant has been used in the treatment of paralysis, coughs and stomach aches. The leaves have been heated then placed inside the ear to treat earache.

Abortifacient: Causes an abortion.

Anthelmintic: Expels parasites from the gut.

Emmenagogue: Promotes or increases the menstrual flow. In early stages of pregnancy it can induce an abortion.

Ophthalmic: Treats eye complaints.

Other

Rating: 2

An essential oil obtained from the leaves is used in perfumery and as a food flavouring.

Essential: Essential oils that are used in perfumery, medicines, paint solvents, insect repellents etc.

Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent

How it is grown

Succeeds in any good open soil. This species is not hardy in the colder areas of the country, it tolerates temperatures down to between -5 and -10°c. The bruised foliage releases a somewhat foetid smell like wet fur, but with slightly sweeter undertones. Sold in local markets. This report probably refers to its use as a medicinal plant. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.

Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Shrub

Hardiness: 7-10

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Dry, moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

R. angustifolia. R. bracteosa. DC.