Gas Plant

dictamnus albus

Also known as: ["Gas Plant","Fever Plant","Burning Bush"]

Family: Rutaceae Genus: Dictamnus Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant with fragrant flowers and volatile oils that can ignite under certain conditions.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Sapindales
Family: Rutaceae
Genus: Dictamnus
Botanical Name: Dictamnus albus

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden bed in a sunny spot with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Fragrance Lovers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: high
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates some afternoon shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct sun in winter.

Watering

every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid overwatering to prevent soil compaction; test pH periodically.

Temperature

Prefers temperate conditions (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but not frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing before winter dormancy; use a balanced formula.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut back stems to a healthy bud or lateral branch; remove crossing or crowded branches.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune at the right time; remove dead/damaged growth; shape the plant.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback; frost can be fatal.

Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth; move containers indoors in winter; ensure good air circulation.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may go dormant in extreme heat.

Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Dictamnus albus may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, leading to reduced photosynthesis and overall vigor.

Wilting in Dictamnus albus can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, affecting the plant's ability to transport water and nutrients.

Leaf spots on Dictamnus albus are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Dictamnus albus due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are susceptible to toxicity from Dictamnus albus if they ingest any part of the plant. The furanocoumarins and other toxic compounds can cause gastrointestinal irritation and systemic effects, which may be particularly severe in cats due to their sensitivity to certain plant toxins.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy depression loss of appetite abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary care immediately. Provide the veterinarian with information about the plant to ensure appropriate treatment.
Dogs
Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Dictamnus albus can lead to gastrointestinal upset and systemic toxicity due to the presence of furanocoumarins and other toxic compounds. These substances can cause irritation to the digestive tract and may lead to more severe symptoms if a significant amount is consumed.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep the plant out of reach of dogs. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately. Do not induce vomiting without professional guidance.
Humans
Toxic

Dictamnus albus, commonly known as gas plant or burning bush, contains furanocoumarins and other toxic compounds that can cause severe skin irritation upon contact and systemic toxicity if ingested. These compounds can lead to photodermatitis, where exposure to sunlight exacerbates skin reactions, and ingestion can result in gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects.

⚠️ Symptoms:
skin irritation photodermatitis blistering vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if touched or eaten

Avoid direct skin contact, especially when handling fresh plant material. Wear protective gloves and clothing. Keep away from children and pets. If ingestion occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Dictamnus albus safe to grow around children and pets?

A: No, it is toxic to humans, dogs, and cats.

Q: Why is it called the Gas Plant?

A: It releases volatile oils that can ignite under hot, dry conditions.

Q: How should I care for Dictamnus albus?

A: It requires moderate care, including well-drained soil and full sun.

Quick Reference
Family: Rutaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during growi
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","fragrance lovers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Prickly Ash, Toothache Tree
View
Hercules' Club
View
Finger Lime Boronia
View
Kumquat
View