Ballota pseudodictamnus

False dittany, Ballota pseudodictamnus, is a small, bushy shrub that thrives in hot, sunny and dry conditions. It's aided by a covering of felty, silver hairs that reduce water loss. In late summer it produces flowering spears that bear whorls of small pink flowers.

Ballota pseudodictamnus is perfect for growing in sunny gravel gardens, where it'll inhibit weed growth and combine well with plants like bearded irises and phlomis.

For best results, grow Ballota pseudodictamnus in full sun in a poor, well-drained soil. Prune back hard in spring to encourage fresh growth, which has the best colour. Ballota pseudodictamnus has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's prestigious Award of Garden Merit.