Ruta is a genus of flowering plants in the family Rutaceae, commonly known as rue. These plants are characterized by their aromatic leaves and small, yellow flowers. Rue has been used in traditional medicine and cooking, particularly in Mediterranean cuisine, where it adds a distinct flavor to dishes. The most well-known species is Ruta graveolens, often referred to as common rue. It is a perennial herb that can grow up to 1 meter tall and is native to Europe and parts of Asia. Rue is also associated with various cultural beliefs and has been used historically for its supposed protective properties against evil spirits.