Dictamnus is also known as Dittany, it’s a robust and hardy perennial which performs best in sunny areas, although it can tolerate partial shade. It will tolerate most soil types as long as there is good drainage. Its height and bushy habit makes it ideal for a space at the back of the border, and each year it will grow back bigger and better than the last.

How to plant

• Plant Dictamnus bare roots in spring between February and May, ideally within a week of delivery.
  
• Soak the roots in water for 3-6 hours prior to planting. Pot into temporary 2 litre (or 15-20cm diameter) pots, using a good quality multi-purpose compost.
  
• Plant with the roots submerged and with the top of the root system with buds just level with the soil surface. Any shoots or leaves which have emerged already should be left exposed above the soil surface.
  
• Grow them on in a sheltered area outside. They can be transplanted into suitable growing positions after 2-4 months or once growth is established and the plants easily come out of the temporary pots with the soil held together by the roots.
  
• When planting into the garden, choose a position in a sunny border with moist but well-drained soil. Ensure the area is dug over and cleared of weeds first.
  
• Keep space clear around the young plant and ensure neighbouring plants or weeds are not overcrowding it.
  
• Dictamnus is hardy to around -15C and does not require winter protection in most areas.
  
• Water-in after planting and keep hydrated when in growth, particularly during the first year.

Aftercare

• Dictamnus can be slow to grow and may take 2-3 years to establish. It may not flower in the first year but will produce attractive leaves.
  
• New growth emerges within around a month of planting, flowers emerge in summer.
  
• Dictamnus dies back in autumn, at which point you can cut all leaves and stems back to around 5cm above soil level. New stems and foliage emerge from the root system the following spring.
  
• Dictamnus forms a clump over time. As the root system grows, the plant will also grow larger each year. Clumps which have grown very large over time can be divided in autumn.
  
• Wear gloves and take care when handling cut stems, as they exude a sap which can be an irritant on the skin.