Peganum harmala Syrian rue (Zygophyllaceae)

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Peganum harmala
Syrian rue
(1 Page of 5)

The Peganum harmala plant species is found in Europe - Mediterranean and Southeast Europe. It is a member of the Zygophyllaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Syrian rue.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Peganum harmala
Common Name:  Syrian rue
Family:  Zygophyllaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  Use with caution. Although the seed is used medicinally and as a condiment, it does contain hallucinogenic and narcotic alkaloids[238]. When taken in excess it causes hallucinations and vomiting[238].

Mature Height:  0.6   Mature Width:  0.5

Habitat:  Dry steppes, especially where grazing is heavy[187], and dry waste places[50]. It is often found in saline soils[254].

Cultivation Notes: Prefers a light well-drained but moisture retentive soil and an open position in full sun[200]. Prefers a dry soil[187] and succeeds in poor soils[238]. Although this species comes from dry desert areas, it responds well to cultivation so long as the soil is very well drained[238]. It can tolerate temperatures down to about -20°c if the soil is dry[187]. There is speculation that this plant was the sacred 'Soma' plant, which was used by the ancients of India and Persia as an hallucinogenic aid to understanding the deeper meaning of life[238].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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