Sheffield's Seed Company Page

Dictamnus albus, commonly known as Dittany, Burningbush, or Gas Plant, is a captivating herbaceous perennial admired for its remarkable characteristics and visual appeal. Native to central and western Asia and Europe, this plant thrives in USDA zones 3 to 8, flourishing in full sun and well-drained soils that remain consistently moist. Known for its slow establishment, Dittany eventually matures into an upright, clump-forming plant reaching heights of 2 to 4 feet, with a spread of 1.5 to 2.5 feet. During late spring to early summer, it showcases fragrant, showy flowers with five petals in hues of white, pink, red, or lilac, often veined or dotted with red, and arranged in elegant terminal racemes. The glossy, pinnate light green leaves emit a refreshing lemony fragrance when crushed, adding to the plant's sensory allure. A distinctive feature of Dittany is its ability to exude a flammable oil from old flowers or seed pods, which, in calm conditions, can be ignited for a brief, harmless flash of light, earning it the nickname "burning bush." Resistant to most pests and diseases, Dittany attracts butterflies and makes a striking addition to borders and cottage gardens, particularly when paired with daylilies, peonies, and iris. While its volatile oils are noteworthy, be mindful of its phototoxic properties, as contact can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Explore the enchanting world of the Dittany plant, where ornamental beauty meets fascinating natural phenomena.