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African rue (Peganum harmala)
ODA rating: A
Other common names
Wild rue, rue weed, and Syrian rue.
Identification
Perennial, much-branched herb. Leaves smooth and deeply cut with long, narrow segments. Flowers white with five petals.The fruit is a many-seeded capsule.
Impacts
This plant has been reported to be toxic to domestic ruminants in experimental feeding studies. It is very difficult and costly to control.
Click on image below to view larger photo
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Douglas Barbe, California Dept. of Food & Agriculture, Botany Laboratory.
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W. J. Ferlatte, California Dept. of Food & Agriculture, Botany Laboratory,
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Douglas Barbe, California Dept. of Food & Agriculture, Botany Laboratory.
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If images are downloaded and used from the ODA web site please be sure to credit the photographer.
Known hazards
African rue contains numerous alkaloids and all plant parts are toxic. Seed coats contain the alkaloid harmine and are especially toxic when ingested. However, livestock seldom consume plants because of the bitter taste.
Introduction
Introduced from the Mediterranean region and Middle East. Dehulled seeds yield edible oil similar to cottonseed oil. Plants have been used medicinally and produce red dye in the Middle East. African rue is limited to one site in Crook county in Oregon.
Distribution in Oregon
The first documented site in Oregon was 1967 in Crook County.
Map legend
Yellow: limited distribution
Red: abundant
Grey: not known to be present
Biological controls
Biological control agents are not used on "A" listed weeds in Oregon. This weed is being managed for eradication or containment.
Informational Links
WeedMapper
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