An evergreen herbaceous undershrub, native of South Europe, known in some places as the "Herb of Grace", and "Countryman's Treacle". It grows 2 to 3 ft. high, and has deeply divided blue-green leaves and greenish flowers in summer. The leaves, which have a strong and almost disagreeable odour, are sometimes used for seasoning, garnishing, and for medicinal purposes; they are also administered to poultry having the roup. The plant grows in almost any soil, preferably a poor one. It is usually increased by slips or cuttings in late summer or autumn, placed in a sheltered border or in a frame; it may also be raised from seeds sown in spring.

Fig. 513. - Rue (Ruta graveolens).