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 orientalis is a perennial herb that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It prefers slightly alkaline conditions and can tolerate drought once established. Space plants about 30-45cm (12-18in) apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth.
Water regularly during dry periods, especially in the first year. Goat's Rue can become invasive, so it's important to monitor its spread and deadhead spent flowers to prevent self-seeding.
Avoid over fertilising as this can lead to lax, floppy growth that will require further staking (which is recommended).
Water regularly during dry periods, especially in the first year. Goat's Rue can become invasive, so it's important to monitor its spread and deadhead spent flowers to prevent self-seeding.
Avoid over fertilising as this can lead to lax, floppy growth that will require further staking (which is recommended).
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
Unavailable
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