Common rue

For Lithuanians rue symbolises maidenly innocence – in the old wedding ritual the bride’s wreath of rue was removed.

Common rue is a small, evergreen subshrub with blue-green, pinnately divided leaves that give off an intense, bitter smell. In summer it bears yellow flowers with spoon-shaped petals. It comes from southern Europe, and in Central and Eastern Europe it has been grown for centuries in cottage gardens as a medicinal, culinary and ritual plant. It contains essential oils and photosensitising substances, so touching the leaves in full sun can cause skin irritation.

Significance in the country

Rue is Lithuania’s national flower and one of the most frequent motifs in Lithuanian folk songs (dainos). A wreath of rue symbolised virginity, and “Rūta” is still a popular Lithuanian girl’s name, given in honour of the plant.

Where it grows

Grown in cottage gardens throughout the country, especially in the countryside; it does not grow wild in Lithuania.

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