Dictamnus

These hardy perennials are originally from southwest Europe, south and central Asia, Korea and China. These plants are commonly called Burning Bushes because, in aridweather, a flammable oil exudes from the leaves and seedpods and if a flame is placed near, will sometimes ignite without damaging the plant. Other common names include Gas Plant, Dittany and Fraxinella. D. albus is an erect plant growing up to 3 feet high with a spread of 2 feet. The fragrant, light green leaves are divided in lance-shaped leaflets. Its star-shaped flowers are also scented; they are borne in racemes in early summer and are white with noticeable stamens. D. albus var. purpureus resembles D. albus, but has pale to deep purplish-pink flowers also with conspicuous stamens. The leaves are very aromatic.

Pot Cultivation

Grow Burning Bushes in fertile, light soil in a warm, sunny, sheltered spot. Established plants do not adjust well when transplanted.

Propagation

Seeds may be sown in sandy soil in late summer. Root cuttings may be inserted in light soil in a frame in March.