False dittany (Ballota pseudodictamnus)

False dittany

Also known as: Greek horehound

False dittany is often cultivated as a garden plant and it's well-known as an extremely drought-tolerant species. False dittany forms an attractive evergreen shrub, with velvety, silvery-green leaves, quite soft to the touch and very aromatic.

Scientific classification

Species

False dittany (Ballota pseudodictamnus)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

60 cm

Plant Height

70 cm

Spread

Green, Silver

Leaf Color

Pink, White, Purple

Flower Color

Images of False dittany

Quickly Identify False dittany

Compact shrub form, 12-18 inches tall (30-45 cm) and over 3 feet wide (90 cm).

Soft, rounded 1 inch (2.5 cm) gray-green leaves covered in velvety fuzz.

Leaves paired along stems catch droplets, enhancing appearance.

Small white flowers with purple throats clustered near foliage tips in summer.

Drought-resistant, thrives in full sun, well-drained soils.

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Care Guide for False dittany

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: False dittany thrives in rocky Mediterranean soils, showing strong drought tolerance with watering only every 1-2 weeks. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure, flourishing in warmer, dry climates while minimizing overwatering risks.

Fertilize: For false dittany, use balanced fertilizer monthly during growth and switch to high-nitrogen every two months in vegetative stages. Over-fertilization risks root burn; follow dosage guidelines. Reduce feeding in dormancy and dilute fertilizer to half-strength. Water false dittany beforehand to safeguard roots.

Pruning: False dittany thrives with seasonal pruning, best done in early to late winter, to shape the plant and remove weak stems. This practice promotes dense growth, air circulation, and reduces disease risk. Use clean, sharp tools for precise cuts to ensure plant health.

Propagation: False dittany is a perennial herb from the Lamiaceae family, prized for its aromatic leaves and woolly texture. Propagation via cuttings from healthy, non-flowering shoots is recommended. Cuttings should root in sterile, well-drained media, ensuring moisture balance to avoid rot before transplanting.

Repotting: Repot false dittany every 2-3 years in spring, using a larger container for growth. After repotting, provide well-draining soil, moderate watering, and avoid direct sunlight for a week to prevent shock and support recovery, enhancing false dittany's vitality.

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