Ruta graveolens is a hardy, evergreen plant that grows in a mound 45 to 60cm (18 to 24in) tall. The leaves are small, oblong, deeply divided, with a characteristic greyish color. Clusters of cup-shaped, four-petaled yellow flowers in clusters bloom above the foliage in early summer. Rue is a good rock garden plant. It is very adaptable, it can grow in poor soil and can stand hot, dry sites. The bruised leaves have a strong, pleasant orange-like fragrance and is one of the most pleasant herbs to inhale. In the garden, rue attracts wildlife and butterflies, while repelling fleas and mosquitoes.