Dictamnus albus purpureus is a hardy deciduous shrubby perennial, that grows to 600-1200 mm
(2–4 ft) high, with a similar spread.
The aromatic spikes of rosy-purple flowers with their prominent stamens appear in July.
This plant is gets its other name ‘gas plant’ because it emits oil on calm evenings which if you hold a lit match under the flower it will ignite.
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The plant is toxic and may cause a skin rash,meaning it is advisable wash hands and or wear gloves when handling any part of
the plants/s
The plant gas also got shiny aromatic pinnate leaves that smell of lemons.
It requires an alkaline free draining soil and a sunny or parially shaded spot.
They dislike disturbance once they have become established.
They can take three or four years to become established.
Cultivation;
Week 34-40; Collect fresh seed when the flowers die back and sow immediately.
The seed can be sown insitu in a nursery bed or in pot/trays of seed compost and germinated in a cold frame.
Grow seedlings on for another two years before planting them out in their final quarters.
Week 40; Plant out 500mm (18") in free draining alkaline soil.
Week 42; Prune back to ground level.
