Goat's Rue

Goat's Rue (Tephrosia virginiana)

        Blooming from May to June the Goat's Rue, found in the eastern half of the United States, produce strikingly colored ½ to ¾ inch pink (keel) and tan (upper petals or standard) flowers, with a shape typical of those in the Pea (Fabaceae) family. Covered with hair, the plant reaches 28 inches tall and have leaves to five inches long which are divided into twenty one or more leaflets.
         Found in clearings and open wooded areas,the Goat's Rue,is threatened or endangered in some N.E. States.
       The Goat's Rue has had many uses historically. The insecticide rotenone, found in the roots of the plant, has been used as an effective insecticide and as a fish poison used to stun fish. Other uses include treatment for arthritis, tuberculosis, worms, bladder and kidney problems and to “make children strong”.

Warning: It is not recommended that these plants be used as medicine or food since many similar species may cause illness or death.