Dictamnus albus - Dittany

Dictamnus albus, also known as Burning Bush, is a robust perennial for poor soil in a Mediterranean climate, forming dense clumps of woody branches with divided, leathery, dark green leaves.

Contrary to what its species name might suggest, Burning Bush is a perennial that does not flower white (albus = white in Latin), but pale pink, adorned with purple veins and a fragrant aroma. The flowers bloom in late spring, usually in June, and are carried by sturdy spikes 1 metre (3 feet) in height.

Also known as the Gas plant, Dictamnus albus contains a slightly inflammable oil that ignites and crackles during periods of intense heat.

Dictamnus albus is even more spectacular in dry and poor soil, even limestone, and under scorching exposure. Pair it with catmints, spurge, and grasses in a rock garden.