Acanthus mollis

Bear's Breeches


Semi-evergreen Perennial

Bold glossy green foliage of Acanthus mollis is semi-evergreen and in mild winters it can remain attractive all through winter. Avoid situations where it will get hot afternoon sun as the foliage can wilt and burn, marring its appearance. It can be difficult to remove as it returns from small pieces of root, so site it thoughtfully. Makes a dramatic container specimen. Showy summertime blooms.

Growing Conditions

Zone: 7, 8, 9, 10

Exposure: Part Shade, Morning Sun, Open Shade

Water Needs: Regular / Even

Soil: Rich, Well-drained

Description

Size: 30 - 48 tall x 30 - 48 wide
Shape / Form: Clumping, Mounding
Foliage Texture: Bold
Foliage Quality: Bold

Features: Attractive Foliage, Long Blooming

Foliage Color: Green

Flower Color: Lavender / Lilac, Mutli-color
Bloom Season: Spring, Summer
Flower Shape: Spike /Spire


Uses and Applications

Landscape Uses: Banks and Slopes, Beds and Borders, Container, Erosion Control, Groundcover, Mixed Border
Special Situations: Deep Shade
Wildlife: Deer Resistant, Hummingbirds

More Design Considerations

Season of Interest: Spring, Summer, Fall, Late Spring / Early Summer, Late Summer / Early Fall, Three Seasons of Interest
Position / Role: mid-plane filler
Plant Behavior: Aggressive / Crowds Neighbors, Potentially Invasive

Care and Maintenance

Maintenance Level: medium

Plant Combos