Galega officinalis
common goats rue
Unfurling its distinctive pinnate leaves and pea-like blooms amidst sunny garden borders, this hardy, centuries-old medicinal plant has long captivated both gardeners and pollinators alike.
Galega officinalis emerges in spring as a bushy, strong-growing perennial, its upright stems cloaked in attractive foliage that persists well into autumn. From midsummer, this informal cottage garden favourite erupts with an abundance of delicate, raceme-borne flowers in shades of lilac, and purple, their intricate, pea-like forms providing endless fascination for gardeners pollinators alike.
Thriving in poor soils where it enriches the ground through the fixation of nitrogen by its roots, this adaptable wildflower of Central and Southern Europe makes a superb choice for informal, naturalistic plantings, as well as traditional cottage-style borders.
Galega officinalis emerges in spring as a bushy, strong-growing perennial, its upright stems cloaked in attractive foliage that persists well into autumn. From midsummer, this informal cottage garden favourite erupts with an abundance of delicate, raceme-borne flowers in shades of lilac, and purple, their intricate, pea-like forms providing endless fascination for gardeners pollinators alike.
Thriving in poor soils where it enriches the ground through the fixation of nitrogen by its roots, this adaptable wildflower of Central and Southern Europe makes a superb choice for informal, naturalistic plantings, as well as traditional cottage-style borders.
How to care for Galega officinalis:
Galega thrives in full sun to partial shade, preferring moist, well-drained soils but tolerating a wide range of conditions including poor, dry sites. Space 60-90cm (2-3ft) apart to allow for their vigorous, bushy growth habit, incorporating plenty of organic matter into the planting hole to enrich the soil.
Provide sturdy support as the tall, upright stems may require staking, especially when laden with flower spikes. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to extend the flowering period. Avoid heavy mulching around the crown, as the plant can be susceptible to rot in overly wet conditions. Divide overcrowded clumps every 3-4 years in early spring to help rejuvenate the plant and promote renewed vigour.
Provide sturdy support as the tall, upright stems may require staking, especially when laden with flower spikes. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to extend the flowering period. Avoid heavy mulching around the crown, as the plant can be susceptible to rot in overly wet conditions. Divide overcrowded clumps every 3-4 years in early spring to help rejuvenate the plant and promote renewed vigour.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
1.2m
Eventual spread:
0.9m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
-
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
-
CAUTION toxic if eaten/skin & eye irritant
9cm pot
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