Commonly known as rue, refers to  species of aromatic, evergreen shrub belonging to the Rutaceae family. 
Physical Description:
Leaves: Rue plants have pinnately compound leaves with lance-shaped leaflets. The leaves are typically bluish-green and emit a strong, characteristic fragrance when crushed.
Stems: The stems are woody and often have a bluish tint.
Flowers: Rue produces small, yellow flowers with prominent pistils and stamens. The flowers are arranged in terminal clusters.
Uses:
Culinary: Rue has historically been used as a culinary herb in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, although its use has diminished in modern cooking due to its strong, bitter taste.
Medicinal: In traditional herbal medicine, rue has been used for various purposes, including as a digestive aid and for its potential antimicrobial properties. However, due to the presence of compounds that can be toxic in high doses, its medicinal use requires caution and should be supervised by qualified practitioners.
Ornamental: Rue is also grown for its ornamental value. It has attractive, finely textured foliage and is used in gardens and landscapes for its aromatic and visual appeal.
Growing Conditions:
Soil: Well-drained soil is preferred. Rue can tolerate poor, rocky soils.
Watering: It is drought-tolerant and prefers moderate watering.
Sunlight: Rue thrives in full sun.
Hardiness: Depending on the species, rue is generally hardy and can be grown as a perennial.
Harvesting:
Harvest rue leaves as needed for culinary or medicinal purposes. Pruning can help shape the plant and promote bushier growth.
Caution:
Rue contains compounds, including furanocoumarins, which can cause photodermatitis (skin irritation triggered by sunlight). Direct contact with the sap of rue on the skin can lead to skin reactions. Additionally, ingesting large quantities of rue can be toxic.
Due to its potential toxicity, caution is advised when using rue, especially for medicinal purposes. It's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using rue for any medicinal applications.