Also known as African Rue · Rue · ጤና አዳም
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Fringed Rue (Ruta chalepensis) is an aromatic, evergreen subshrub with blue-green foliage and yellow flowers. It is native to the Mediterranean region and can be used as
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 15-25°C.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains furocoumarins, which can cause phototoxicity (skin irritation and blistering upon exposure to sunlight after contact). Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal upset.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Fringed Rue thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Allow excess water to drain completely to prevent waterlogging.
Reduce watering frequency in cooler months, as the plant requires less moisture during dormancy. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Prune Fringed Rue in late spring or early summer after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Lightly trim to manage size and remove spent flower stalks.
Avoid heavy pruning in autumn or winter.
Fringed Rue can be propagated by seeds sown in spring or by semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Seeds may require stratification. Cuttings should be rooted in well-draining potting mix in a warm, humid environment.
Division of established clumps in spring is also an option.
Repot Fringed Rue every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot slightly larger than the current one with excellent drainage. Use a well-draining, gritty potting mix.
Repot in spring before new growth begins for best results.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Fringed Rue (Ruta chalepensis)
Where Fringed Rue (Ruta chalepensis) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Ruta |
| Species | Ruta chalepensis |
Similar in genus Ruta
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
