Also known as Burningbush · Dittany · Fraxinella
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Gasplant (Dictamnus albus) is a fragrant perennial with showy white or pink flowers, known for its unique ability to release a flammable vapor on warm days.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.
Moderate, but drought-tolerant when established
50% intensity
Prefers to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering.
Well-drained, loamy
50% intensity
Hardy
50% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures once established. Prefers moderate climates.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low requirement
25% intensity
Prefers lean soil. Little to no fertilization needed. Compost may be beneficial in poor soil.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contact with sap can cause blistering and phytophotodermatitis (skin sensitivity to light).
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly during its first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, Gasplant is very drought-tolerant and prefers to dry out between waterings.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage. Reduce watering significantly in winter.
Prune back dead or damaged stems in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove spent flower stalks after blooming to encourage a tidier appearance and potentially a second bloom.
Wear gloves and long sleeves as sap can cause skin irritation.
Propagate by seed sown in autumn or early spring. Stratification may improve germination.
Division of established clumps is possible in early spring, but Gasplant dislikes root disturbance and can take time to re-establish. Handle plants with care.
Gasplant is best left undisturbed once established as it dislikes root disturbance. If repotting is absolutely necessary, do so in early spring before new growth appears, carefully handling the root ball.
Choose a location where it can remain for many years.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Gasplant (Dictamnus albus)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Dictamnus |
| Species | Dictamnus albus |
Similar in genus Dictamnus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
