Ruta (commonly known as rue) is a genus of strongly scented evergreen subshrubs, 20–60 cm tall, in the family Rutaceae, native to the Mediterranean region, Macaronesia and southwest Asia.

As of September 2021[update], Plants of the World Online accepted ten species:[1] Extracts from rue have been used to treat eyestrain, sore eyes, and as insect repellent.

[4] Since medieval times, rue has been used as an additive to wines (both white and red) to enhance its flavour and its keeping properties.

In Brazil, according to folk tradition said to have been brought by West African slaves, the rue plant – locally called arruda, in Portuguese – is claimed to protect against the evil eye.

Exposure to common rue, or herbal preparations derived from it, can cause severe phytophotodermatitis, which results in burn-like blisters on the skin.