Dictamnus albus var. albus
burning bush / dittany
Handsome spires of white or pinkish-white flowers appear from summer above leathery leaves that smell of lemons, especially when crushed. The flowers are followed by winged seed-pods.
This lovely, clump forming perennial gets its common name, burning bush, from the fact that the unripened fruit and the flowers contain an aromatic oil which may be prominent in hot weather, emitting a delicious aroma. Dictamnus albus var. albus is a great plant for the middle of a mixed or herbaceous border.
This lovely, clump forming perennial gets its common name, burning bush, from the fact that the unripened fruit and the flowers contain an aromatic oil which may be prominent in hot weather, emitting a delicious aroma. Dictamnus albus var. albus is a great plant for the middle of a mixed or herbaceous border.
How to care for Dictamnus albus var. albus:
Choose a sunny position in well-drained, fertile soil that doesn’t get waterlogged in winter. Water freely while it’s actively growing in spring and summer, but once established it copes well with drier conditions. Avoid disturbing it unnecessarily, as this plant dislikes root disturbance, so choose a permanent spot from the start if possible.
Cut the stems back to ground level in late autumn or early winter, ideally wearing gloves as the sap can cause skin irritation. Every few years, divide congested clumps in spring or autumn to keep plants healthy and flowering well. Mulching in spring can help conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Cut the stems back to ground level in late autumn or early winter, ideally wearing gloves as the sap can cause skin irritation. Every few years, divide congested clumps in spring or autumn to keep plants healthy and flowering well. Mulching in spring can help conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.9m
Eventual spread:
0.6m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
-
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
-
Humans/Pets: TOXIC to skin with sunlight
1 litre pot
£17.99
available to order from autumn
Unavailable
3 × 1 litre pots
£42.99
£14.33 each
available to order from autumn
Unavailable
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