Species dittany
light-pink flowers with light-pink filaments and yellow anthers, dark-pink buds on maroon petioles and maroon-green stems

dittany

Dictamnus albus

Dittany (Dictamnus albus) is an amazing plant species that has been used in folk medicine for hundreds of years. It has a fabulous show of white or pink flowers with an intense fragrance that lasts for many days. The leaves of the plant are covered with a sticky substance that gives off a spicy aroma. Dittany has a number of beneficial properties, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. It can also help relieve stress and improve digestion. Ultimately, dittany is truly a unique and amazing plant that is well worth discovering!

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

White, pink, red, lilac, sometimes veined or dotted red. Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Dittany should be watered regularly throughout the growing season, but it is important not to over-water. The best practice is to water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the soil type. For very sandy soils it may be necessary to water more frequently. In general, the soil should feel moist but not soaked. During the hottest part of summer, it may be necessary to water more often to ensure the soil does not dry out. In colder months, water less often but still ensure the soil is not completely dry. During the winter months, water just enough to keep the soil from drying out.

sunlight

Dittany (Dictamnus albus) grows best in full sun or partial shade. It needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. It prefers morning sunlight, so it is best to plant them in an area that receives sunlight in the early morning and shade in the afternoon. The plant does like warmer temperatures during the summer months, so it is important to make sure it does not receive too much direct sunlight in the afternoon when temperatures are likely to be the highest.

pruning

Pruning dittany (Dictamnus albus) shrubs should be carried out each year in late winter or early spring before the start of new growth. To keep the plant in an attractive shape and prevent it from overgrowing, you should aim to remove around 1/3 of the total stems and branches by cutting them back to just above a strong bud. This will encourage the plant to bush-out and become fuller. It's important to use sharp, clean shears when pruning dittany as this reduces the chance of infection. It's also best to avoid pruning in wet weather.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Dictamnus albus typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Dictamnus albus typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map