Rue

This intensely bitter herb was once widely used in the Mediterranean region and an important herb during the Roman Empire. Today it is a common a decorative, so it can be found in the herb section of most well stocked nurseries and is easy to grow in temperate climates. The blue-green leaves are very small, about 3/8 inch long.

Rue is used as a cat repellant - most cats don't like the smell. It also has a number of medicinal uses. It is considered a digestive remedy, and is reputed to be a powerful inducer of abortion. Ironically, it is the national herb of Lithuania, and associated there with virginity and maidenhood,

Rue it is still occasionally called for in traditional recipes, particularly in Greece, and also appears as a flavoring in some distilled beverages. Both the leaves and berries are used in Ethiopian cuisine. It should always be used fresh, so you will need it in your garden if you wish to use it.

Caution:   Exposure of the skin to Rue foliage can cause serious Photodermatitis, resulting in rash and/or blisters with subsequent exposure to sunlight.

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