Rue (Common Rue, Herb of Grace)

• Common Name: Rue (Common Rue, Herb of Grace)
• Latin Name: Ruta spp., esp. Ruta graveolens
• Family Name: Rutaceae

Although admired for its beautiful blue-green foliage, Rue contains furocoumarins, the glycoside rutin, and various alkaloids.  The furocoumarins cause severe blistering to the skin of humans when it comes into contact with the leaves in the presence of sunlight (so do take care when handling this plant).  It is also noted in various sources that ingestion of Rue has been known to cause stomach pain, vomiting, and convulsions, and occasionally death from liver failure, so this is not a plant to feed to your tortoise. 

Do not confuse with Meadow Rue (Thalictrum) which is a different plant.