Identification and Reproduction

Identification:

• African rue is a herbaceous shrub that grows from a woody stem. 
• Produces multiple shoots and will reach a height of 80 cm. If stems are crushed it will release a foul smell. 
• Leaves are alternate on the stem, dark green, fleshly and deeply divided. 
• Flowers are white, five-petaled with green sepals and yellow stamens. Blooms occur between March and October.   

Reproduction: 

• Reproduces from seed. Seeds are often dispersed through water and animal transportation. 
• Can also reproduce vegetatively from its woody stem. 

Habitat & Ecology

• It often grows in dry areas. 
• Can withstand high salinity levels. 
• Commonly found on dry grasslands, roadsides, field edges and degraded pastures. 
• African rue has not been found in Canada yet. 

Impacts

Social: 

• Can be poisonous to people and livestock. Consumption can cause reduced fertility and abortions. 
• Plants are also impalatable to livestock. 
• It can contaminate agricultural seed crops. 

Ecological: 

• Its woody rooting system helps it quickly invade an area. 
• It also germinates earlier in the growing season than native species.
• African rue has allelopathic chemical properties that reduce and suppress the growth of native vegetation. 

Management

Prevention is a high priority for this species. 

• Be sure to maintain and diversify pastures. 
• Buy and use clean, high-quality seed mixtures. 
• Clean machinery, vehicles and tools when moving from site to site. 
• Contact your local Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) if you think you have seen this plant. 

Resources

• CFIA's factsheet on African rue, Peganum harmala

Header photo (Yuriy75).

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