Family: rue family (Rutaceae)
Flowering time: May–June
Size: 60–100 cm
Habitat: sunny rocky slopes, dry meadows, among shrubs and open woodlands
The tall, upright stem of the common dittany (Dictamnus albus) is covered with numerous black glands. These emit a distinct odor reminiscent of lemon. This is not at all surprising, since common dittany, together with lemon and other citrus fruits, is placed in the same family. It is also characterized by large, up to 3 cm long, pale pink flowers with violet veins. Its compound, pinnate leaves resemble ash leaves. From the similarity of its leaves to this tree, its name also derives.
Common dittany is a thermophilous species that only grows in lowlands. It is relatively common only in southwestern Slovenia, while in other parts of the country it is rarely found.
