Goat’s Rue
Goat’s rue is a beautiful native plant that flowers from May to August and prefers rocky open woods, glades and prairies. Found in the Eastern portion of the United States, this plant has large roots that fix nitrogen. Plants grow 1-3 inches tall with pink and white, or pink and pale yellow, flowers bunched at the top. They cannot grow in shade and prefer sandy soils.
Traditionally the plant was used to treat ailments such as tuberculosis, rheumatism and bladder problems. The plant is also being studied in cancer research. The seeds are reported to cause nausea and Seminole Indians are said to have used the root, which contains the insecticide rotenone, to poison fish. Other folklore speaks of pouring a tea made from the roots on garden plants to kill insects. Long, thin and tough, the roots are the source of the name "devil's shoestring." The long roots also make this plant drought resistant. This native plant's stems are covered with a silky, silver hair that has caused allergic reactions in some people.
At one time this plant was fed to goats as it was thought to improve milk production. That earned it the common name "goat's rue" due to the presence of rotenone.
Just off of a hiking/biking trail. Not much shade on some of the trails. Be sure to bring plenty of water. You may get wet feet and bug spray is recommended depending on the season.
Myakka River State Park is one of Florida's oldest and largest state parks. The scenic Myakka River flows through 58 square miles of wetlands, prairies and woodlands. The park is popular for hiking, boating, kayaking, fishing, camping, and wildlife observation.
As of January 2019, the Park Entrance Fees are as follows:
- $6.00 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle
- $4.00 Single Occupant Vehicle.
- $2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.
- $60.00 Bus Tour Fee (30+ people).
- $2.00 per person, Bus Tour Fee (less than 30 people).
Placed with permission of Park Manager Steve Giguere