Also known as Montanan Fir
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Mountain Rue (Ruta montana) is a fragrant, evergreen subshrub native to the Mediterranean region. It features a woody base and aromatic, blue-green foliage, producing sma
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; drought-tolerant.
Well-drained, gritty, poor soils; prefers alkaline
50% intensity
Adaptable
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 5-9; prefers moderate temperatures.
Low
25% intensity
Requires minimal feeding; a light spring application is enough.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Skin irritant, photosensitizer
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Mountain Rue prefers well-drained soil and is drought-tolerant once established. Water thoroughly when the top few centimeters of soil feel dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings.
Prune Mountain Rue in early spring before new growth emerges or after flowering. Lightly trim to shape the plant and remove any dead or woody stems. Avoid heavy pruning, as it may not recover well.
Regular light trimming encourages bushier growth and prevents legginess.
Propagation is typically done by seed sown in autumn or early spring, or by cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Seeds may require stratification.
Cuttings should be placed in well-draining soil and kept moist until rooted. Division of established clumps is also possible in spring.
Repot Mountain Rue only when necessary, typically every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, similar to its native habitat. Choose a pot slightly larger than the current one.
Repot in spring before active growth begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Mountain Rue (Ruta montana)
Where Mountain Rue (Ruta montana) 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 montana |
Similar in genus Ruta
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
