Dictamnus albus
Family: Rutaceae
Herbaceous perennial. Native to southern and temperate Europe,
Siberia and northern China. Slow growing plant produces lemon-scented
flowers in handsome, pyramidal spikes. The plants are unique in that
they emit puffs of essential oil on hot summer evenings, which may be ignited
with candle or match. The dried root bark or leaves are used to produce
a cordial infusion for calming the stomach, or in higher doses as a prophylactic
to epilepsy. Cultivation: Challenging. Seed has short viability.
We keep it cold-stored, and it should be ordered in the fall, midwinter
or very early spring and sown upon receipt. Sow in outdoor nursery
bed. Space plants 3 feet apart. Grows 4 feet tall.
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