Foliage Plant Combo with Textural Contrast

Planting Combination of bear's britches (Acanthus mollis) and evergreen variegated grass (Carex oshiomensis 'Evergold') can look good year-round in mild winters. Shade tolerant and easy care, but site it carefully, as the Acanthus can be difficult to successfully remove because it re-grow from pieces of remaining root.

Growing Conditions

Zone: 7, 8, 9
Exposure: Open Shade, Filtered Sun, Morning Sun, Part Shade, Part Sun, Full Shade
Water Needs: Average

Design Considerations

Style: Asian Influenced, Container, Modern, Woodland
Features: Varied Foliage, Texture, and Form, Fabulous Foliage
Focus: Color Theme, Mixed Border, Small Space
Seasons of Interest: Spring, Summer, Fall, Three Seasons of Interest

Care and Maintenance


Maintenance Level: low

Plants In this Combo

  • Acanthus mollis

    Bear's Breeches

    Type: Perennial
    Exposure: Part Shade, Morning Sun, Open Shade
    Zone: 7, 8, 9, 10

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  • Carex oshimensis 'Evergold'

    Evergold Sedge

    Type: Grass / Grass-Like, Groundcover, Perennial
    Exposure: Full Sun, Part Sun, Part Shade, Filtered Sun, Morning Sun, Open Shade
    Zone: 6, 7, 8, 9

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