Galega orientalis
oriental goats rue
Billowing like summer clouds, this graceful perennial creates a dramatic display with its upright spikes of indigo-blue, pea-like flowers rising above soft, pinnate foliage. Galega orientalis, reaching an impressive height of 1.2m (4ft), produces these enchanting blooms from late spring through early summer, creating a miniature lupin-like effect in mauve-indigo.
This vigorous spreader thrives in almost any garden soil, particularly excelling in poor conditions where it maintains a stronger, more upright habit rather than becoming floppy as it might in rich soil. Its bright green, feather-like leaves provide a perfect backdrop for the 15cm (6in) flower spikes, while its robust, spreading nature makes it an excellent quick border-filler.
Perfect for sunny positions though tolerating light shade, this pollinator-friendly perennial creates a willowy, naturalistic presence in the garden, though may need staking in fertile soils to maintain its architectural form.
This vigorous spreader thrives in almost any garden soil, particularly excelling in poor conditions where it maintains a stronger, more upright habit rather than becoming floppy as it might in rich soil. Its bright green, feather-like leaves provide a perfect backdrop for the 15cm (6in) flower spikes, while its robust, spreading nature makes it an excellent quick border-filler.
Perfect for sunny positions though tolerating light shade, this pollinator-friendly perennial creates a willowy, naturalistic presence in the garden, though may need staking in fertile soils to maintain its architectural form.
How to care for Galega orientalis:
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:
1m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
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CAUTION toxic if eaten/skin & eye irritant
9cm pot
£8.99
available to order from spring
Unavailable
3 × 9cm pots
£22.99
£7.66 each
available to order from spring
Unavailable
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