Goat's Rue (Galega officinalis)

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Galega officinalis is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft) by 0.8 m (2ft 7in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen in August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in nutritionally poor soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Leaves - cooked. Used like spinach. Some caution is advised due to reports of possible toxicity. The herb is used as a substitute for rennet in curdling plant milks etc. — Used like spinach.; Some caution is advised due to reports of possible toxicity.; The herb is used as a substitute for rennet in curdling plant milks etc.

Habitat & North American Range

Scrub, woods, marshy fields and roadsides. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)