Natural England

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Gardening with Wildlife in Mind

The Plant Press

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False dittany - Ballota acetabulosa

False dittany - Ballota acetabulosaFalse dittany - Ballota acetabulosa
© Dr Chris Gibson/English Nature
UK distribution - East Anglia, Midlands, North, South East, South West

Ballotas are native to the Mediterranean and will withstand long periods without water. This species is grown primarily for its fine soft grey-green foliage. Its purple and white flowers resembling dead-nettles may not look much but they are a magnet for bees. Ballotas are hardy and generally free from disease but they may be susceptible to winter wet.

Animals

Buff-tailed bumble bee, Honey bee, Red mason bee, Red-tailed bumble bee, White-tailed bumble bee

FoliageGreen
FlowerPurple, July to August
MoistureDry (Dry)
SunlightFull sun (Full sun)
OriginNon-native
1203