Dictamnus

Dictamnus, often known as dittany or the burning bush, is an unusual hardy perennial with a character all its own. Upright stems carry fragrant flowers in shades of white, pale pink or rosy purple, often marked with darker veining, above glossy aromatic foliage. The flower spikes have a refined, almost old-fashioned beauty, making Dictamnus particularly suited to traditional borders and gardens where unusual plants are given space to be appreciated.

Once established, Dictamnus plants prefer not to be disturbed. They develop substantial root systems and can become long-lived features in sunny, well-drained borders, although patience is worthwhile as young plants may take time to settle fully. After flowering, decorative star-shaped seed capsules continue the display, giving the stems an architectural quality later in the season.

Bare-root dittany is therefore less of a quick filler and more of a plant to establish for the long term. Its fragrant foliage, elegant flower spikes and distinctive seedheads offer several layers of interest, while the rarity of seeing it in everyday planting gives Dictamnus a particularly special place in a well-chosen UK perennial border.